Scientific Name
Stephania pierrei Diels
Synonym(s)
Stephania erecta Craib
Scientific Classification
Family: Menispermaceae
Genus: Stephania
Origin
Stephania pierrei is native to southeast Asia (Thailand and Laos).
Description
Stephania pierrei, also known as Stephania erecta, is an unusual caudiciform plant with a swollen stem resembling a round ball. The stem can reach up to 1 foot (30 cm) in diameter. In spring, it sprouts a lovely vine that can grow up to 26.2 feet (8 m) long, adorned with round leaves and yellowish flowers. In winter, the foliage dies back.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 40 °F (+4.4 °C)) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Stephanias are native to Southeast Asia and the Australasia region, especially Indochinese countries. In their natural habitats, these caudex plants are usually found in seasonal deciduous forests on limestone mountains.
These are interesting vines for clothing screens, porches, fences, and other supports in warm, dry, frost-free climates. They grow well in greenhouses under conditions that suit many cacti and succulents.
These plants thrive in sunny locations in any ordinary soil. In greenhouses, they grow well where the minimum winter night temperature is 50 to 60 °F (10 to 16 °C) and the day temperature is a few degrees higher. Stephanias need very well-drained soil, full sun, and airy, not excessively humid conditions. From the time new growth begins in spring until stems and foliage die down in fall, they need moderate watering, enough to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. During their winter dormancy, water should be withheld entirely. Do not overwater, as the caudex will rot, and your plant will die.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Stephania.
Links
- Back to genus Stephania
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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