Akebia trifoliata

RHS Plant Profile
three-leaf akebia
three-leaf akebia RHS 2003

Synonyms

Akebia lobata

Climber Wall Shrub

A strong-growing climber with leaves composed of three ovate, slightly lobed leaflets which are often bronze-tinted when young, and deep purple flowers in short racemes, followed by light purple fruits

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lardizabalaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Climbing
Genus
Akebia are vigorous twining, semi-evergreen climbing shrubs, with attractive palmate or trifoliate leaves and racemes of cup-shaped purplish female and smaller male flowers, followed by large, sausage-shaped fruits, if cross-pollinated by another clone
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China, Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

A climber that thrives with any good garden soil and aspect, but resents root disturbance

Propagation

Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or layering

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wall side borders

Pruning

Pruning group 11 after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)