Schisandra grandiflora

Schisandra grandiflora is a deciduous vine in the Schisandraceae family. Its common name is large-flowered magnolia vine. It comes from the Himalayas and southern Tibet. Its range includes Bhutan, Nepal, and parts of northern India. It grows in mixed forests and areas of shrubs. These habitats lie at 5,580–10,830 feet [1,700–3,300 metres]. It is a plant of temperate regions.

This climber twists its stems around a support as it grows. It sheds its leaves each year. In gardens, it reaches 26–39 feet [8–12 metres] tall. Its spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. The RHS gives five to ten years to reach full size. Its climbing form suits walls, screens, and borders beside walls. Suggested settings include city gardens, courtyards, and informal cottage gardens. Woodland edges and sites beside east-facing walls also suit it.

The flowers are usually white and open from late spring into summer. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Both sexes must be present for fruit to form. Red fruit hangs from the vine in autumn. Each fruit measures about 0.02 feet [0.006 metres] across. The fruits form bunches about 0.4 feet [0.12 metres] long. Their grouped shape recalls a small bunch of grapes. This autumn crop adds a second season of interest after flowering.

Grow it in fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. It accepts full sun or partial shade in a sheltered site. The RHS lists chalk and loam as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. The RHS rates its cold hardiness as H4. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10. These ratings use different systems and should be read within their local context. Prune in early spring. Sow ripe seed in containers in a cold frame. Other options include greenwood cuttings in early or midsummer. Semi-ripe cuttings can also be taken in summer.

The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. Plants For A Future records no known hazards for this species. That report does not establish safety for pets. People can eat the fruit raw or cook it. Its tart taste suits use as a dessert fruit. Plants For A Future gives its food value four out of five. It records no known medicinal uses or other uses. It also lists the species as not weedy.