Camembert-flavour plant (Paederia lanuginosa) - live plant

• A live, rooted plant
• Aromatic and ornamental vine, to grow in a pot
• Packaging suited to live plants

Paederia lanuginosa is a climbing member of the Rubiaceae from Southeast Asia, a cousin of the coffee plant and the gardenia. It is a fast-growing twining vine with oval, downy leaves, hence its epithet lanuginosa, which means covered in down.

The smell is only released when the leaf is crushed: an intact leaf smells of nothing. It comes from sulphur compounds, the same family of molecules that gives a ripened cheese its character. That is where the whole aromatic kinship lies.

In Southeast Asia, Paederia leaves go into several traditional dishes, where they bring a fermented note that does indeed recall cheese. A few finely chopped leaves are enough: the aroma is powerful and quickly takes over.

A tropical plant, sensitive to frost, to be grown in a pot in our climate. Plenty of light, rich and free-draining compost, regular watering during growth and reduced watering in winter.

Give it a support: it is a twining vine that winds around and grows fast. Regular pruning keeps it dense and compact.

Does it smell all the time?
No, only when a leaf is crushed. The plant itself is completely odourless.

Does it really taste of Camembert?
There is a real kinship, due to shared sulphur compounds. The effect is closer to a ripened cheese in general than to Camembert specifically, but the surprise is guaranteed.

Is it hardy?
No. It must be overwintered frost-free, in a conservatory or a bright indoor space.

Does it grow fast?
Yes, it is a vigorous vine in the warm season. Provide a support from the time of planting.

Also worth exploring: our aromatic and edible plants and our rare plants.