Sargentodoxa cuneata

Sargentodoxa cuneata is a climbing shrub in the Lardizabalaceae family. It is deciduous: it sheds its leaves each year. Its home range spans central and southern China. It also includes Laos and northern Vietnam. It grows in open mountain woods and gullies with rich soil. These sites have warm temperate or subtropical climates. Its older name is Holboellia cuneata. People gather wild plants for medicine and to kill insects.

This fast-growing climber reaches about 25 feet [7.5 metres]. Its woody stems wind around nearby plants for support. It does not keep its leaves all year. Gardeners sometimes grow it for its looks as a climbing plant. This strong-growing shrub can grow at the edge of woods. In mild British gardens, it usually needs a sunny wall. Its climbing form suits this site where the climate allows.

The flowers have a scent and open in May. Plants For A Future gives this bloom time. Flies and other insects carry pollen between the flowers. The species is dioecious: each plant has male or female flowers. A lone plant cannot fertilise itself. Both sexes must grow together to form fruit and seed. Cut the plant back after it blooms, when it needs pruning. Both garden sources give this advice on when to prune.

Choose rich soil that holds moisture but drains well. The plant grows in sand, loam, and clay soils. It copes with soils that are slightly acid or slightly alkaline. Neutral soil suits it too. Grow it in full sun or part-day shade. In Britain, cold limits outdoor growth to the mildest areas. Useful Tropical Plants reports that it can take brief cold spells. The stated limit is about 23°F [-5°C]. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. Grow seedlings under glass for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Wait until the risk of frost has passed. You can also raise new plants from stem cuttings.

Neither source lists a use as food or a known hazard. This does not mean the plant is safe to eat. Traditional medicine uses the leaves, stems, and roots for several complaints. Reported uses include dressings for sores and treatment for rheumatic pain. These records show use as medicine, not proof of safe home treatment. Reports also state that the plant can kill insects. The supplied sources name no specific garden pests or diseases.