Parthenocissus himalayana

Physical Characteristics

Parthenocissus himalayana is a deciduous Climber growing to 18 m (59ft 1in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover; East Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 177]. A juicy texture with a sweet to acidic flavour[194]. The average yield per plant is about 750g per year[194]. (This seems exceedingly low[K].) The fruit contains about 8.6% sugars, 2.9% protein, 1.4% ash. Vitamin C content is 12.2mg per 100ml of juice[194]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200] and is carried in small bunches like grapes.

Medicinal Uses

Vitamin C None known

Known Hazards

None known