Fallopia baldschuanica aka Chinese Fleecevine

Fallopia baldschuanica is a woody vine in the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae. Gardeners call it Russian vine or silver lace vine. Its native range spans eastern Afghanistan, Central Asia, and western Pakistan. It grows in temperate regions and sheds its leaves in winter. Older names include Polygonum aubertii and Polygonum baldschuanicum.

This fast-growing climber winds its stems around a support. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a usual height of 25–35 feet [7.6–10.7 m]. RHS gives a taller range of 26–39 feet [8–12 m]. Reported spread reaches about 26 feet [8 m]. New growth can reach 12–15 feet [3.7–4.6 m] in one year. RHS gives five to ten years to reach full size. The leaves range from oval to heart-shaped. Young leaves have a red tint, then turn green. They reach about 3.5 inches long.

Small, scented flowers form loose, narrow panicles across the vine. Their colour ranges from creamy white to pinkish white. Flowers appear in summer and can last from July until frost. Small pink fruits follow the flowers. The blooms give the plant much of its garden value. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists it as a plant that attracts birds.

Grow this vine in full sun or partial shade. It prefers regular moisture and soil that drains well. Sandy loam suits it, but it accepts clay, chalk, and sand. It also grows across acidic, neutral, and alkaline soils. Established plants tolerate some drought, and the vine tolerates heavy shade. RHS rates it H7; Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 4–7. Give climbing plants strong supports that will last. Without support, the stems can spread across the ground.

The vine can cover fences, walls, trellises, and pergolas fast. On the ground, it can hide stumps or rock piles. It can also help hold soil on banks. Yet its rapid growth can make it a nuisance. Rhizomes let it spread beyond its planting spot. Poor, lean soil may reduce this tendency. Keep it away from places where spread would cause trouble. Prune in late winter or early spring, then trim excess growth as needed. Hard pruning can renew an overgrown plant. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Watch for leaf miners and Japanese beetles.