Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) - live plant

• A live, rooted plant
• Sold as an ornamental and botanical collector's plant
• Packaging suited to live plants

Gynostemma pentaphyllum belongs to the Cucurbitaceae, the family of the squash, the cucumber and bryony. Like its cousins, it climbs by means of tendrils.

Its epithet pentaphyllum describes its leaf: five toothed leaflets arranged in a fan, sometimes seven on vigorous shoots. It is a fine, light foliage, unlike that of other garden climbers.

The plant is dioecious: male and female plants are separate, and the tiny, greenish flowers go almost unnoticed.

It is one of the few Asian climbers that is genuinely easy. It is hardy: the top growth dies back in winter and the rootstock regrows in spring, like a classic perennial.

Partial shade or gentle sun, cool and rich soil, regular watering in summer. Give it a support: trellis, wire mesh, or let it trail from a raised planter, which shows off the pattern of its leaves beautifully.

It grows fast and can cover several square metres in a season. It does not mind pruning.

Is it hardy in France?
Yes, in a large part of the country. It dies back in winter and regrows from the rootstock, often late in spring: do not give it up for dead too soon.

Why five leaflets?
That is the trait that gives it its name, pentaphyllum. On the most vigorous stems, you can count seven.

How fast does it cover a support?
Very quickly in the warm season, as long as it has water and soil that does not dry out. It is a generous climber.

Do you need a male and a female plant?
To get fruit, yes, since the species is dioecious. For the foliage, which is its main appeal, a single plant is more than enough.

This plant is sold as an ornamental and botanical collector's plant. Also worth exploring: our rare plants and our aromatic plants.