Akebia

There are two very popular species of Akebia:

Akebia quinata - five-leaf akebia is a moderately growing vine reaching up to 5-6 m, with 1-2 m of annual growth. Its main attraction are very unusual, palmate leaves that comprise 5 ovate leaflets (hence the name), and are evergreen or semi-evergreen (in which case they fall off only after severe frosts). Flowers are inconspicuous and hidden between the leaves. You should look out for them in May, as they look quite interesting from close up. They are gathered in small clusters of larger (2-3 cm across), chocolate-purple, female flowers and smaller (0,5-1 cm across), pink, male flowers. Blossoms have a spicy fragrance what makes akebia particularly well suited to growing near a window or over and arbour. Fruits, grouped in sets of 2-3, are oblong, sausage-like pods up to 10 cm that ripen in October. Violet outside, they crack on ripening revealing white pulpy core. I have tried several of them and become quite convinced that they are not suitable for eating. Akebia generally sets few fruits, though for instance, in 1995 in Poland fruits were borne in abundance. It will grow well in practically every position and readily tolerate mediocre soil, though it doesn't like shade or direct, strong midday sun. It's perfect for growing over arbors or pergolas, but will also feel at home growing into small trees or up the supports near the walls. Its unusual, exotic appearance will add an oriental touch to your garden.

Akebia trifoliata - three-leaf akebia. An attractive climber with twining stems. Palmate leaves are divided into three wavy edged leaflets. It has slender stems that are violet when young and brown at maturity. Small deep purple flowers (both male and female) are borne in clusters in May and have a delicate cinnamon scent. Very interesting fruits, resembling a sausage in shape, are bigger than those of akebia quinata (up to 13 cm). Best planted in a sheltered position. It can be trained over various kinds of garden supports, or alternatively, allowed to scale a tree. More sensitive to frost than akebia quinata.