Five Leaved Akebia (Akebia x pentaphylla)

Family: Lardizabalaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Akebia x pentaphylla is a deciduous Climber growing to 9 m (29ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet but insipid. — Sweet but insipid.; The fruit has a delicate flavour and a soft juicy texture.; The flavour can be enhanced by the addition of a little lemon juice.; Valued as a novelty, it looks somewhat like a deep-purple coloured sausage.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods and thickets. A naturally occurring hybrid, A. quinata x A. trifoliata. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)