Akebia quinata

Akebia quinata - Five-Leaf Chocolate Vine

General:
The Akebia is native to Japan, China and Korea. It grows here in bushes and forests as a creeper. Its leaves are composed in the shape of a hand and are deciduous. In mild winters, however, they sometimes stay on the plant until the next year. Akebia have very interesting, purple-brown, slightly fragrant flowers. From this, purple-colored cucumber-like fruits can develop. The fruits are edible.

Care as a bonsai:
It is not that easy to make a bonsai from five-leaf chocolate vine. As a creeper, the plant forms many shoots and these must be removed except for a strong main shoot. This shoot can then be shaped with wire and over time a trunk develops more and more. Especially with a sloping shape, it is the fruits that give the plant its unique character. Akebia can be in a sunny or partially shaded position. In winter, the plants should best be placed frost-free.