Japanese Staunton Vine Stauntonia hexaphylla
ABOUT
Stauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as the Chinese staunton vine, is a climbing plant that possesses a lush and leafy appearance. The foliage of the Chinese staunton vine is one of its most striking features. The leaves are generally compound with usually six individual leaflets, which together form a single leaf. These leaflets are glossy and have a leathery texture with a rich, deep green color that can provide a dense canopy when the plant is grown over a structure like a pergola or along a fence. The Chinese staunton vine produces flowers that are typically small and bell-shaped with hues that can range from greenish-white to creamy-white or even pale yellow. These subtle flowers provide a delicate contrast to the robust foliage and can appear in clusters, adding a gentle ornamental touch to the plant. Following the flowering period, the Chinese staunton vine can bear fruit. The fruits are elongated and might remind one of small, slender cucumbers or loquats, depending on the stage of ripeness. Initially green, they mature to a darker shade and can provide visual interest as well as attract wildlife like birds who appreciate the fleshy fruits. The plant’s stems are smooth and may have a twining habit, allowing the vine to clamber over various supports and other plants. This climbing habit makes the Chinese staunton vine an excellent choice for vertical gardens or covering unsightly areas with its attractive foliage and potential fruit display. In summary, the Chinese staunton vine is an ornamental climber known for its compound leaves, small bell-shaped flowers, and elongated fruits, which together create a visual tapestry of greenery, subtle floral accents, and fruit that attracts both human admiration and wildlife interaction.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lardizabalaceae
Synonyms
Japanese Staunton Vine, Stauntonia, Chocolate Vine
Common names
Holboellia coriacea, Rajania japonica, Stauntonia obovatifoliola, Stauntonia sinensis, Stauntonia obovata.
ToxicityTo humans
Stauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as the Chinese Sausage Vine, is not typically regarded as a poisonous plant to humans. In its native regions, it is sometimes used for its edible fruit after proper preparation. However, like many plants, individual parts not intended for consumption could cause mild stomach upset if ingested. There is not much information available on the specific toxicity of this plant, but it is generally considered safe, with no well-documented cases of poisoning in humans from consuming the Chinese Sausage Vine.
To pets
The Chinese Sausage Vine is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is limited information regarding its toxicity, but it is not listed among the commonly recognized poisonous plants for pets such as cats and dogs. To be cautious, it is generally recommended to prevent pets from ingesting plants not specifically intended for them, as they may cause gastrointestinal upset or other mild symptoms even if they are not severely toxic. If a pet does ingest part of the Chinese Sausage Vine and exhibits any concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
20 feet (6 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Stauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as Chinese cucumber, is a perennial vine known for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers, which enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Edible Fruits: The plant produces edible fruits that can be consumed fresh or used in various culinary dishes, providing a source of nutrition.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The flowers of Chinese cucumber can attract pollinators like bees, while the dense foliage offers shelter for various birds and insects.
- Shade and Privacy: As a climbing vine, Stauntonia hexaphylla can be trained over pergolas or trellises, creating living screens that offer shade and increased privacy for outdoor living spaces.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the plant is used for traditional festivals or ceremonies, contributing to the preservation and enrichment of cultural heritage.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Stauntonia hexaphylla has been traditionally used to alleviate pain.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant contains compounds that are believed to reduce inflammation.
- Diuretic: It has been used to promote the production of urine, aiding in the elimination of excess fluids.
- Laxative: The plant may have a mild laxative effect, helping to relieve constipation.
- Expectorant: Stauntonia hexaphylla can be used to help clear mucus from the airways.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Yamagobo Substitute: The young shoots of Stauntonia hexaphylla can be pickled and used as a substitute for yamagobo, a Japanese pickled burdock root that is commonly used as a condiment in sushi.
- Fruit Preserves: The plant's fruit can be made into jams or preserves due to its sweet taste and jelly-like consistency once cooked.
- Aromatic Oil: The flowers of Stauntonia hexaphylla can be used to extract a fragrant oil that may be used in perfumery or aromatherapy blends.
- Natural Insect Repellent: The leaves of Stauntonia hexaphylla can be crushed and applied to the skin as a natural insect repellent, thanks to certain compounds that insects may find irritating or avoid.
- Animal Fodder: The leaves of Stauntonia hexaphylla can be used as fodder for livestock, providing a source of nutrition for animals such as goats or cattle.
- Decorative Vines: The climbing vines of Stauntonia hexaphylla, which can grow quite long and lush, may be used in landscaping or as living decoration to cover walls and trellises.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers and leaves can be used as an ornamental garnish due to their attractive appearance, adding an aesthetic touch to exotic dishes.
- Traditional Crafts: The vine's sturdy fibers can be used in the creation of traditional crafts, such as basket weaving or the construction of other woven items.
- Environmental Education: Stauntonia hexaphylla can be grown in educational gardens or greenhouses to help students and visitors learn about diverse plant species and their ecological roles.
- Biodegradable Containers: The plant fibers might be explored for use in the creation of biodegradable containers or packaging materials, as a sustainable alternative to plastics.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiStauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as Japanese staunton vine, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityJapanese staunton vine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Stauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as Chinese Star Jasmine, exhibits strong vitality and adaptability, symbolizing the ability to thrive in diverse conditions.
- Growth and Renewal: The vigorous growth pattern of Chinese Star Jasmine represents the concept of constant development and the cycle of rebirth.
- Purity and Innocence: The delicate white flowers of the Chinese Star Jasmine convey a sense of purity and innocence, often associated with the simplicity and untouched aspect of nature.
- Peace and Tranquility: Its fragrant blossoms bring a calming influence to gardens, symbolizing a state of peace and tranquility in one's environment.
WaterThe Japanese Woodland Vine, commonly called Stauntonia hexaphylla, prefers consistent moisture, but it's important not to overwater. Water this plant thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this might be about once a week, but always check the soil moisture before watering. The amount of water will vary depending on the size of the plant and pot, but a general guide could be 16-32 ounces for a medium-sized plant. Decrease watering frequency in the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
LightJapanese Woodland Vine thrives in light conditions that mimic its natural forest habitat, which is bright indirect light. A spot near a north-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to avoid placing it where the sun's rays can directly hit the foliage for prolonged periods.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for a Japanese Woodland Vine is between 60°F and 80°F. It should be protected from temperatures below 50°F, as cold drafts can damage the plant. The Stauntonia hexaphylla can tolerate short periods of cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure to cold can be detrimental to its health.
PruningThe Japanese Woodland Vine benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and encourage fuller growth. Prune the plant in the early spring, before the start of the new growth season. Remove any dead or damaged stems, as well as any overly long vines to keep the plant looking tidy. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to control the size and shape of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChinese star jasmine (Stauntonia hexaphylla) prefers a well-draining, fertile loam with a pH of around 5.5 to 7. A good soil mix can be made from equal parts of peat, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite, which ensures proper drainage and aeration while retaining some moisture and nutrients.
RepottingChinese star jasmine should be repotted every two to three years or when it has outgrown its current pot. Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow the plant to recover during the growing season.
Humidity & MistingChinese star jasmine thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 60-80%. Consistently high humidity is especially important for younger plants, although mature plants are somewhat more tolerant of lower humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For indoor growth, give Chinese star jasmine bright, indirect light and keep it humid.
Outdoor
Outdoors, plant Chinese star jasmine in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA.
Life cycleChinese Star Jasmine (Stauntonia hexaphylla) begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in the favorable warmth and moisture of spring. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and produces a set of true leaves after the initial cotyledons, gradually establishing a root system. As it matures into a juvenile plant, it begins to climb or trail, given its nature as a vine, with stems developing woody tissue and leaves becoming lush and evergreen. The plant reaches sexual maturity in a few years and flowers in the spring, the flowers being inconspicuous, cream to pale yellow clusters, with a sweet fragrance. Following pollination, which is often facilitated by insects, it produces purple-black, oval fruit, which reach maturity in the autumn. The fruits contain seeds that, once dispersed, can initiate a new life cycle if they land in favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Stauntonia hexaphylla, commonly known as the Japanese staunton vine, is by semi-hardwood cuttings. This is usually done in the later part of summer. To propagate, a healthy, semi-hardwood section of the vine is cut to a length of 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters). The cuttings should include several leaf nodes. Leaves on the lower half of the cutting are removed to prevent moisture loss, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one node is buried where roots can form. The cutting requires consistent moisture and should be kept in indirect light until roots have established and new growth begins to show, indicating successful propagation.
