Kadsura coccinea

Kadsura coccinea is a vine that stays green all year. It belongs to the Schisandraceae family. It comes from southern China and parts of mainland Southeast Asia. Its range takes in Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. It grows in subtropical forests, scrub, ravines and disturbed ground. People gather wild plants for food and use in folk medicine.

Its woody stems twine as the plant climbs. In gardens, it grows about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall. It spreads about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Plants take five to ten years to reach full size. The oval leaves have pointed tips and a mid-green colour. They stay on the plant through winter. The vine suits borders by walls and sheltered courtyards. The RHS also lists it for subtropical gardens.

Flowers may be white, red, pale green, or mixed colours. Short stamens or styles form raised groups at their centres. Flowers grow on the current year's shoots. The RHS says separate plants bear male and female flowers. Useful Tropical Plants also reports both sexes on one plant. That source lists the species as not self-fertile. When plants have separate sexes, fruit needs both sexes. After fertilisation, female flowers form large aggregate fruits. These turn red to dark purple. Each fruit has many wedge-shaped units, often 50–60 or more. Fruits span about 0.2–0.33 feet [0.06–0.10 metres], sometimes more. The flesh tastes sweet. People eat it raw or cooked.

Choose a warm spot with shelter from harsh weather. The RHS accepts full sun or part shade. Useful Tropical Plants favours part shade. Keep soil moist, but let excess water drain away. Fertile clay, loam and sandy soils can all suit it. The RHS lists acid, neutral and alkaline soils as suitable. Useful Tropical Plants favours only neutral to acid soil. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H4. Grow new plants from seeds or semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Useful Tropical Plants says it needs little pruning. The RHS says to do any pruning in winter.

The RHS reports few pest or disease problems. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. This does not prove safety for pets or all plant parts. The same source lists folk uses for several parts. People use roasted fruit to aid sleep and as a sedative. They use roots and stems for stomach and joint complaints. The source also notes leaf use for eczema. These are records of folk medicine. They do not prove that these treatments work or are safe.