Strongylodon macrobotrys
Strongylodon macrobotrys
Jade vine
★
Taxonomy
Family Fabaceae · Genus Strongylodon
Description
Strongylodon macrobotrys, the famed jade vine, is a tropical climber prized for its cascading racemes of surreal turquoise, claw-shaped flowers. A showstopper on pergolas and in warm greenhouses, it rewards patient growers with breathtaking spring displays.
Common Names
Jade vineEmerald vineTurquoise jade vineEmerald creeper
Context
nativeRegion
Endemic to the lowland rainforests of the Philippines.
usdaZones
10b–12
companionPlants
Petrea volubilis (queen’s wreath), Thunbergia grandiflora (blue trumpet vine), Mandevilla spp., Jasminum sambac, Bougainvillea spp.
culturalUses
Celebrated ornamental in conservatories and tropical gardens; emblematic of Philippine biodiversity and used in dramatic floral displays.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, filtered light to partial sun; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Indoors, brightest spot with some direct early/late sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist in active growth; water when the top 1–2 inches of mix begin to dry. Reduce slightly in cooler months; never let it sit in water.
SoilRich, very well-draining, slightly acidic mix (e.g., fine orchid bark + perlite + peat/coir + compost). Avoid compacted, alkaline soils.
FertilizerFeed every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer with a balanced or bloom-leaning formula; provide micronutrients/iron chelate if leaves yellow in alkaline water.
HumidityHigh humidity (60–80%+). Mist foliage or use a humidifier/greenhouse; ensure good air movement.
TemperatureWarmth loving: 65–90°F (18–32°C). Protect from temps below 55°F (13°C); absolutely frost-free.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, woody liana with twining stems; requires a sturdy trellis, arbor, or pergola.
Mature Size30–60 ft (9–18 m) long in ideal climates; shorter under glass.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, humid conditions with rich soil.
BloomingSpectacular hanging racemes 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) long of turquoise, claw-shaped flowers; typically late winter to spring, with repeats in tropics.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler/shorter days. A brief, slightly drier and cooler period can encourage bud set.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-hardwood cuttings with bottom heat and rooting hormone, Air layering, Seed (often requires hand-pollination to set; sow fresh)
DifficultyChallenging
Best SeasonLate spring to summer for cuttings/layering; sow fresh seed in warm conditions.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune lightly after flowering to control size and encourage short lateral spurs (flowering wood). Avoid hard pruning that removes old wood.
RepottingPot up young plants yearly; provide a deep, sturdy container. For established vines, refresh mix and upsize every 2–3 years without heavily disturbing roots.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and aphids. Prevent root rot with sharp drainage; good airflow helps deter fungal leaf spots. Chlorosis may occur in alkaline conditions.
ToxicityToxicity not well documented; handle with care and avoid ingestion. Sap may irritate sensitive skin.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.