White Flowered Chocolate Vine

Akebia quinata 'Shirobana'

A vigorous vine with attractive green leaves comprised of five rounded leaflets. Dangling stalks of fragrant white flowers appear in early spring. Blooms may be followed by showy, four-inch long, edible purple fruit. Creates a quick cover for arbors in warm winter regions; slower growing in colder regions. Semi-evergreen.

Grows easily in most soil types; thrives in moist, well-drained, sandy loam. Water deeply, regularly in first growing season to establish an extensive root system; once established, water as needed to maintain evenly moist soil. Apply fertilizer monthly to lean soils. Provide support such as a trellis or arbor. Prune annually to control size.