Desmos chinensis

Desmos chinensis is a climbing shrub in the Annonaceae family. Its native range runs from southern China across tropical Asia. It occurs in India, Bhutan, Nepal, and much of Southeast Asia. Its range also includes Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Kew places it in the wet tropical biome. Useful Tropical Plants reports its 2021 conservation status as Least Concern.

Its stems can grow to very different lengths across its range. Records from China give lengths of about 13 feet [4 metres]. In Malaysia, stems may reach 79 feet [24 metres]. Records from Borneo extend to 131 feet [40 metres]. These regional records do not define a usual garden size. Useful Tropical Plants also lists a height of 49 feet [15 metres]. The plant grows as a shrub that climbs, or as a liana. Gardens grow it for its scented flowers. One documented planting shows it trained up a lamp post for shade.

In southern China, it grows in valley thickets and on waste ground. Those sites lie at roughly 328–1,640 feet [100–500 metres] above sea level. Elsewhere, records place it in open ground and along woodland edges. It also grows beside thickets, reaching 1,772 feet [540 metres] in elevation. These habitats include both open sites and the margins of woody growth. In cultivation, it can grow in full sun. It prefers a site with some shade, however. The cultivation account accepts any soil that drains well. Seed is the listed means of propagation.

Local people gather wild plants for food and other uses. They use the fruit as a seasoning with a pepper-like role. In southern China, people use the leaves when brewing liquor. These are specific food uses, rather than guidance for eating it raw. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for people or pets.

The plant also supplies fibre, scent, and traditional remedies. People make cord from the bast fibres within its bark. Its fragrant flowers yield an essential oil used in perfume. Traditional medicine uses both roots and leaves. A root decoction has been used to treat dysentery. This records a traditional practice, not proof of medical benefit.