Stephania pierrei

Scientific Name

Stephania pierrei Diels

Synonym(s)

Stephania erecta Craib

Scientific Classification

Family: Menispermaceae
Genus: Stephania

Description

Stephania pierrei, also known as Stephania erecta, is an unusual caudiciform plant with a stem swollen like a round ball and up to 1 foot (30 cm) in diameter. It sprouts in spring in a lovely, up to 26.2 feet (8 m) long vine with round leaves and yellowish flowers. The foliage dies back in winter.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 40 °F (+4.4 °C)) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

Stephania pierrei aka Stephania erecta — *Photo via jolyday.com*

How to Grow and Care

Stephanias are native to Southeast Asia to the Australasia region, especially Indochinese countries. These caudex plants are usually found in the seasonal deciduous forest on limestone mountains in their natural habitats.

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 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.

Origin

This species is native to southeast Asia (Thailand and Laos).