Kadsura longepedunculata

Family: Schisandraceae

What it is like

Kadsura longepedunculata is an evergreen Climber growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in). It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). . The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 3.5

Where it is found

Stream edges and damp shady places. Forests and slopes below 1000 metres.

E. Asia - western China.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Fruit - raw or cooked. The globose fruit is 15 - 35mm in diameter.

Medicine

Rating: 2

The fruit, root, stems or leaves are antitussive, anodyne, carminative and decongestant.

Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.

Antitussive: Prevents or relieves coughing.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

Decongestant: Removes phlegm and mucous, especially from the respiratory system.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a sheltered position in a moderately fertile well-drained neutral to acid soil200]. Prefers a position in semi-shade. Flowers are produced on the current year's growth. Plants do not really require pruning. Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown if seed and fruit is required.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown when it is ripe in the autumn in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on for at least their first winter in a greenhouse. Plant out in early summer and give some protection for their first winter outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8cm with a heel, August in a frame. Overwinter in the greenhouse and plant out in late spring. Good percentage. Layering of long shoots in the autumn.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Habit: Climber

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Kadsura peltigera. Rehd.&Wils.