The Akebia quiata or five-leaf Akebia is a tropical, but conditionally hardy climbing plant from East Asia and is often used as an ornamental plant or for greening facades. Its pink and violet-brown flowers and purple or violet fruits are very decorative.
The fruits of the Akebia are edible
The finger-shaped, approximately 15 cm long fruits are reminiscent of cucumbers, which has also given the Akebia the names climbing cucumber and chocolate wine. The female flowers are darker and larger than the male ones, with a delicate scent of vanilla or chocolate. In September and October you can harvest the edible fruits, their taste is slightly sweet. The leaves of the Akebie can be used as a tea.
The essentials in brief:
- fruits: edible, finger-shaped
- Harvest time: September to October
- Leaves can be used as tea
- Flowers smell like vanilla or chocolate
- also non-toxic for animals
tips
With its decorative flowers and edible fruits, the climbing Akebia quinata is ideal for your family garden.