Akebia quinata ‘Silver Bells’, native to China, Korea and Japan, is a vigorous woody climber commonly known as five-leaf akebia. It differs from the typical species through its bicoloured spring flower clusters, combining silvery-white male flowers with purple stamens and mauve-pink female flowers. Its delicate fragrance, elegant foliage and rapid growth enhance its ornamental value.
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Characteristics of Akebia quinata Silver Bells
Akebia quinata ‘Silver Bells’ develops long, woody, twining stems that naturally wrap around their support. Its palmate foliage consists of five rounded leaflets, dark green above and blue-green beneath, sometimes developing purple shades in winter. The hanging clusters combine creamy-white male flowers with pinkish-purple stamens and larger mauve-pink female flowers. This bright, fragrant flowering clearly distinguishes ‘Silver Bells’ from the typical five-leaf akebia, which produces chocolate-brown flowers. Fleshy purple fruits may develop when another genetically distinct cultivar is planted nearby to ensure cross-pollination.
How to use Akebia quinata Silver Bells ?
This akebia is suitable for quickly covering pergolas, arbours, arches, fences, screens and façades fitted with strong supporting wires. Its dense growth can create an ornamental privacy screen, conceal a utility building or provide shade over a lightweight structure. It may be combined with clematis, climbing roses or climbing hydrangeas to extend seasonal interest. Growing it in a large container is also possible on a terrace, provided that a fertile growing medium and sturdy support are supplied. However, its vigorous growth requires sufficient space and regular management.
How to successfully grow Akebia quinata Silver Bells ?
Plant Akebia quinata ‘Silver Bells’ in spring or autumn in fertile, humus-rich, moist and well-drained soil. This climber tolerates clay, loam, sandy and calcareous soils. Allow an average spacing of 2 to 3 metres between plants and provide a strong support immediately after planting. Water regularly during the first two years, then during prolonged dry periods. Maintain an organic mulch around the base and apply mature compost in spring. As flowering occurs on previously formed wood, pruning is best carried out after flowering to thin out the stems, remove congested growth and control its development.
