Kadsura japonica aka Japanese Kadsura

Kadsura japonica is a woody vine in the Schisandraceae family. Its native range spans southern Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. It grows in warm temperate and subtropical parts of Asia. In woods, its twining stems climb nearby trees. Garden plants reach about 8–13 feet (2.5–4 metres) tall. Their spread is about 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). RHS gives two to five years to reach full size.

The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval to lance-shaped. The vine is evergreen, though some plants are semi-evergreen. Leaves may turn red or purple in autumn. Cold weather can burn the leaves. Small, cup-shaped flowers open from June to September. They range from white to pale yellow and have a sweet scent. Flowers form on the current year's shoots. Red to purple fruits follow on female plants. Each fruit consists of many small, seed-bearing parts grouped together. Sources describe separate male and female plants. Useful Tropical Plants also reports plants bearing both flower sexes. Where sexes are separate, both plants are needed for fruit.

Grow this vine in moist soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, and clay, and tolerates poor soil. Neutral or acid soil suits it; RHS also lists alkaline soil. Full sun and partial shade are both suitable. Choose a site sheltered from cold winds. Hardiness reports differ, so local cold exposure matters. RHS rates it H3, for mild parts of Britain. NC State lists USDA zones 6–9 but warns of cold damage. Useful Tropical Plants reports brief survival at 14°F (−10°C). In colder places, it can grow indoors or under glass.

The vine adds leafy cover and scented flowers beside walls. It also suits courtyards, woodland gardens, and containers. Its red fruit adds interest after the flowers fade. Larvae of the moth Caloptilia kadsurae feed on it. RHS reports few pest or disease problems. Little pruning is needed, according to NC State. RHS suggests winter pruning and summer propagation with semi-ripe cuttings.

The fruit is edible fresh or after cooking. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. This does not establish safety for every part or for pets. Dried fruit has traditional uses for coughs and other ailments. These reports do not prove that it treats illness. Sticky extracts from fruit and bark have served as hair dressings. Leaf extracts have also helped make traditional Japanese washi paper.