Jade Vine Strongylodon macrobotrys
ABOUT
Strongylodon macrobotrys, widely known as the Jade Vine, is a striking and unique tropical plant. Its most distinctive feature is the cascading clusters of claw-shaped flowers, which are a mesmerizing shade of turquoise or jade green. These pendant inflorescences can be quite long, and they hang gracefully from the woody stems, creating a spectacular display that seems almost unearthly. The luminous quality of the bloom's color is due to the presence of a rare pigment, which reflects light in a way that isn't commonly found in the plant kingdom. These greenish-blue flowers appear almost luminescent against the backdrop of the plant's dense, lush foliage of dark green, glossy leaves that are elongated and have a smooth, leathery texture. The Jade Vine's vines are strong and woody, designed to climb and support the weight of the heavy flower trusses. The support structure is important for the plant, as it likes to twine and spread, seeking light and space. The vine itself can grow vigorously, displaying a robust and tropical appearance that is both exotic and elegant. The otherworldly beauty of the Jade Vine is a sight to behold, making it a prized specimen in botanical gardens and plant collections where the climate permits its growth. Its unique floral display and coloration make it one of the most intriguing and captivating plants to encounter.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Jade Vine, Emerald Vine, Turquoise Jade Vine
Common names
Strongylodon macrobotrys.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Jade Vine is not widely known for being toxic to humans. There is limited information available on its toxicity, but it's generally not considered poisonous. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with the ingestion of Jade Vine. However, as with any non-food plant, consuming parts of this plant may potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction in some individuals.
To pets
The Jade Vine is not commonly listed as a toxic plant for pets such as dogs and cats. There appears to be no evidence to suggest that this plant is poisonous to pets. However, ingestion of any plant material can lead to gastrointestinal upset in animals, so it is always best to prevent pets from eating plants that are not meant for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue-green
Height
18 feet (5.5 meters)
Spread
30 feet (9.1 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Philippines
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Jade Vine is known for its stunning turquoise or jade-colored flowers, which hang in long, pendant clusters, providing a spectacular display in gardens and landscapes.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators such as birds and bats, promoting biodiversity.
- Educational Interest: The unique appearance and pollination biology of the Jade Vine make it an interesting specimen for botanical studies and educational programs.
- Cultural Significance: In its native habitat, the Jade Vine may have cultural importance and can be used in traditional practices or ceremonies.
- Conservation: As a threatened species in the wild, cultivating the Jade Vine in gardens can help to preserve its genetic diversity and raise awareness about conservation issues.
- Shade Provider: The Jade Vine can provide cooling shade when grown over arbors or pergolas due to its dense foliage.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant Activity: Extracts from Strongylodon macrobotrys, commonly known as jade vine, have demonstrated antioxidant properties, which could help to mitigate oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Some studies suggest that the plant may contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects.
- Antimicrobial Effects: Certain compounds isolated from the jade vine have shown potential antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
- Anti-tumor Potential: There is limited research indicating that extracts from Strongylodon macrobotrys may exhibit anti-tumor activities.
- Analgelsic Effects: There are suggestions that the plant could possess pain-relieving properties, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Jade vine is often used as an ornamental plant due to its distinctive turquoise-colored flowers that provide an exotic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- In the Philippines, the jade vine's strong stems are traditionally used in the construction of handicrafts, including baskets and certain types of furniture, due to their durability.
- The unique flowers of the jade vine can be used in floral arrangements to create striking centerpieces, particularly for special events like weddings or cultural celebrations.
- The vine can be trained to climb on arbors and trellises, serving as natural shade canopies for outdoor sitting areas and pathways in tropical and subtropical regions.
- The nectar of the jade vine's flowers is a source of food for certain bird species, particularly nectar-feeding birds such as sunbirds and hummingbirds, thus supporting local biodiversity.
- Jade vine's pods, which contain seeds, are sometimes utilized in the crafting of jewelry or as part of artistic installations for their aesthetic appeal and uniqueness.
- In some educational institutions, jade vine is grown for botanical study to understand its unique pollination mechanism that involves bats in its natural habitat.
- Due to its rare and striking appearance, the jade vine is occasionally featured in photography and botanical art, helping to promote conservation and awareness of tropical flora.
- Because of its robust climbing nature, the jade vine can be used for green facades in urban environments to improve the visual appearance of buildings while contributing to urban greening efforts.
- Cultural symbolism is another aspect, as in certain cultures, the jade vine is associated with mystique and beauty and is sometimes referenced in literature and folklore.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Jade Vine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Jade Vine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rarity: The Jade Vine is rare and unique, symbolizing something or someone exceptional and precious.
- Beauty and Attraction: With its stunning turquoise-blue flowers, the Jade Vine represents beauty and the power of attraction.
- Mutual Affinity: The way its flowers are structured to facilitate pollination by bats symbolizes a connection and mutual benefit in relationships.
- Mystique: The unusual color and appearance of the Jade Vine flowers can symbolize mystery or the allure of the unknown.
- Earth's Wonders: As a testament to the diversity of nature, the Jade Vine represents the wonder and complexity of the natural world.
WaterThe Jade vine requires consistent moisture during its active growth phase, so watering should be thorough but with periods of drying out between waterings. Generally, watering once a week with approximately 16 to 32 ounces of water is appropriate, adjusting for temperature and humidity. During the hotter months, water requirements may increase, and the plant might need water twice a week. In the cooler, dormant season, reduce watering to every other week, ensuring the top inch of soil dries out between applications. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Jade vine thrives in bright, indirect light. The ideal spot for this plant is where it can receive filtered sunlight, such as through a curtain or under the canopy of taller plants. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the harsh mid-day hours, as it can scorch the leaves and disrupt growth. Eastern or western exposures with some shade are typically well-suited for the Jade vine’s light requirements.
TemperatureThe Jade vine prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can withstand a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Ensure that the plant is located in a spot that doesn't experience drastic temperature changes, as this can cause stress and affect its health. Maintaining consistent temperatures within this range will support the Jade vine's growth and flowering.
PruningPrune the Jade vine to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage flowering. The best time to prune is after the flowering season has ended. Pruning can be done annually or biennially, depending on the growth rate and the space available. Remove any overgrown or entangled stems, and trim back to a manageable size, ensuring to make clean cuts above leaf nodes.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Jade Vine requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slight acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite or sand in equal parts can provide good drainage and aeration, essential for the root health of the plant.
RepottingThe Jade Vine should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Use a container only a few inches wider to prevent overwatering issues, as the roots prefer to be slightly constricted.
Humidity & MistingThe Jade Vine thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 80%. Maintaining a humid environment simulates its natural tropical habitat and supports its lush foliage growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep the Jade Vine near a bright window with support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with a structure for support.
Hardiness zone
10b-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Strongylodon macrobotrys, commonly known as the Jade Vine, begins with seed germination, which requires warm temperatures and moist soil conditions to initiate. Following germination, the seedling grows into a juvenile plant, developing its distinctive trifoliate leaves and beginning to climb if suitable support is available. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it further develops its woody vine structure and extensive root system to support its climbing habit. The Jade Vine then reaches the flowering stage, where it produces its striking, turquoise to jade-green pendulous flowers that are pollinated by bats and birds. After pollination, the plant develops legume-like seed pods that mature, eventually drying and releasing the seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. The Jade Vine can live for many years, continuing to grow and cycle through flowering and fruiting seasons, potentially reaching lengths of up to 18 meters or more as a perennial vine.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The Jade Vine, known scientifically as Strongylodon macrobotrys, is most commonly propagated through seed germination, which is ideally carried out in the spring or early summer to sync with the plant's natural growth cycle. To propagate by seeds, first soak the seeds in warm water for about 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat. After soaking, the seeds are planted in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm). The soil should be kept consistently warm, around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 29 degrees Celsius), and damp but not waterlogged. Germination can be slow and may take several weeks. Once seedlings have emerged and grown sturdy enough, they are carefully transplanted to larger pots or directly to their permanent location if the climate allows for outdoor growth.
