Ampelopsis humulifolia

Ampelopsis humulifolia is a deciduous vine in the grape family, Vitaceae. Its native range runs from Qinghai to northern China. It grows in a temperate climate, in woods and thickets. Wild sites lie at elevations of 2,953–4,921 feet [900–1,500 metres]. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The name Cissus davidiana is a synonym.

This climber reaches about 20 feet [6 metres] in height. It loses its leaves for winter and climbs with coiling tendrils. Large plants may need ties to hold their leafy growth. Its climbing habit makes a firm support an important growing need. PFAF describes it as an ornamental plant for woodland gardens. A site with dappled shade suits this use. It can also grow in an open, sunny position.

Flowers appear from July to August, and insects pollinate them. Each flower is male or female. Both sexes occur on the same plant. Seeds ripen in October. The small fruits grow in clusters that resemble grape bunches. Each fruit measures about 0.16–0.20 inches [4–5 millimetres] across. In Britain, plants seldom set fruit without a long, hot summer. PFAF lists both fruit and leaves as edible. It gives no further details about preparing or eating the leaves. It reports no known hazards, but provides no pet-specific safety information. It lists no known medicinal or other uses.

For cultivation, choose deep, rich loam that holds moisture. The soil can be mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline. Give the plant a warm spot with shelter. Sun and partial shade are both suitable. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8. Dormant plants can withstand at least -13°F [-25°C] when their wood has fully matured. New spring shoots remain prone to frost damage. Shelter from early morning sun helps protect this growth. Winter hardiness does not mean young shoots resist late frosts.

Propagation is possible from seed or cuttings. Sow seed in autumn pots in a cold frame. For spring sowing, first chill seed for six weeks at 41°F [5°C]. Germination can take more than a year. Keep seedlings in a greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost. Half-ripe cuttings can be taken in July or August. Late autumn and winter cuttings offer another route.