Jade Vine
strongylodon macrobotrys
Also known as: ["Philippine Jade Vine","Blue Jade Vine"]
Overview
A rare and striking vine native to the rainforests of the Philippines, known for its unusual turquoise-blue flowers that grow in clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Strongylodon |
| Botanical Name: | Strongylodon macrobotrys |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: tropical greenhouse, conservatory, or sheltered outdoor space with support for climbing
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter; cactus mix with added compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: high
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter with pH 5.5–6.5
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold or heat.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent room temperature; use a humidifier in dry conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for roots after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long stems and dead foliage; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may need larger pots due to vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and water demand increases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; monitor for signs of overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStrongylodon macrobotrys is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicStrongylodon macrobotrys is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicStrongylodon macrobotrys, commonly known as the jade vine, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the flowers of the Jade Vine blue?
A: The unique blue color is due to a rare combination of anthocyanin pigments and structural coloration in the petals.
Q: Is the Jade Vine suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is not typically recommended for indoor cultivation due to its large size and specific environmental needs.
Q: How can I propagate the Jade Vine?
A: Propagation is usually done via seeds or stem cuttings, though both methods require specific conditions and care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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