Strongylodon macrobotrys (Jade Vine)
Author: Marta Hackett Date Posted:3 October 2024
This rare vine encapsulates the treasured tropical essence we all strive for in exotic gardening. The Strongylogon macrobotrys is endemic to the Philippines and prefers moist, well drained soil with a structure to climb upon like the bamboo arbour we have here at Bamboo Land or perhaps a fence. When planted in the right conditions in full sun or part shade, this magnificent vine can grow at a robust rate up to 6m.
Strongylodon macrobotrys (Jade Vine) blooming
Strongylodon macrobotrys (Jade Vine) in hands
Butterfly Strongylodon macrobotrys petals
Jade Vine, Emerald Creeper and Emerald Vine are all common names. The etymology of the species name macrobotrys stems from the Greek words makros “large (or long)” and botrys “cluster (or bunch) of grapes” and with one look at the incredibly complex flowers it’s easy to see why this name was bestowed to this beauty.
The detail of the flower pendant is almost outshone by the rare colour, as turquoise is quite rare in the plant kingdom. We only really see this mint green or deep aqua colour in a small variety of plants which is very similar to the turquoise and jade minerals found in the earth.
It’s the mature vines that produce the inflorescence clusters which bloom in early spring. For us at Bamboo Land, we’ve witnessed the first bloom from late September to early October. Like the name describes, the flowers hang like pendants or a bunch of grapes and when you see this plant flowering in person, it’s quite a delightful experience. Upon inspection, the individual petals open into a crescent shape and when two are plucked from the plant and placed together, they share the symmetry of a butterfly.
If there is no outdoor space, you can grow these as a large potted specimen inside or on a deck but the plant may not achieve the same length of flowers. Try to position the plant near a window for more sun. We recommend regular watering to keep the soil moist and even misting the leaves would help to keep the plant healthy.
We love our Jade Vine here at Bamboo Land and we think you’ll love it too.
You can buy your very own here.
Explore our range of large pots.