Akebia quinata
(Chocolate Vine, Five-leaf Raisin Vine)

Origin:  East Asia
Family:  Lardizabalaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Height:  10-15'
Spacing:
Blooms:  Fragrant, maroon, mid-Spring, followed later by clusters of sweetly scented, grape-size edible fruits
Foliage:  Deciduous, green, palmate
Soil:  Well-drained
Water:  Regular
Uses:  Ornamental, foliage,
Propagation:  Seeds, layering

Comments:  Akebia quinata or Chocolate Vine or Five-leaf Raisin Vine is an ornamental vine with a fast spreading growth habit.  It is a native of east Asia.  In mid-Spring, it produces pretty, fragrant, maroon blossoms on previous year's wood.  Butterflies are magnetized by its nectr-rich blossoms  This is followed by clusters of sweetly scented grape-like edible fruits.  When seeds ripens, it self sows readily.  To control spread, prune after blooming in Spring.   Chocolate Vine is easily propagated from layering and from seeds.  It thrives best in well-drained soil in a sunny to part shade location.  Allow it to climb up a trellis or arbor for an awesome display.  Use Five-leaf Raisin Vine for a living fence.   It is low maintenance.  Akebia quinata is high sought after for its lovely fragrance and unique blooms.  Chocolate attracts many passerby.

USDA Zones:  5-8