Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys)

Jade Vine

Strongylodon macrobotrys

Its turquoise blooms hang like cascading jade necklaces. Woody perennial climbing vine.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires bright full to partial sun; tolerate dappled shade in intense tropical heat to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; allow top 2 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings in dormant periods
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; avoid exposure to temperatures below 12°C to prevent leaf drop and stunted growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound trifoliate leaves with glossy, oval leaflets measuring up to 15 cm in length
  • Flower: Pendulous racemes reaching 3 m long; claw-shaped turquoise-blue blooms 7–10 cm long
  • Stem: Woody, twining stems with aerial roots for climbing and anchorage
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain evenly moist soil; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Feed with balanced diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Suspend fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels steeped in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drenching to avoid pest attraction and odor
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown stems immediately after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth for the next blooming season
  • Remove dead, damaged, or diseased vines to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Tie young climbing stems to trellises or arbors to guide growth and prevent tangling
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines

Humans: No known toxicity to humans per ASPCA and horticultural sources

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes exotic beauty and rarity in tropical horticulture

Usage: Ornamental vine for arbors, trellises, and conservatory displays