Kadsura japonica — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Kadsura japonica

Kadsura Japonica

Updated · 16 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Kadsura japonica, commonly known as the kadsura vine or simply kadsura, is a plant species native to Japan (Honshū, Kyūshū and the Ryukyu Islands) in woodlands. The larvae of the moth Caloptilia kadsurae feed on K. japonica in the main Japanese islands and Ryukyu Islands.

A note from PlantMom

The evergreen magnolia vine is fairly disease-resistant and is generally not prone to disease. In terms of care, the plant is relatively low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs minimal watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning; however, smaller plants should be pruned after they have finished blooming. The evergreen magnolia vine is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space—such as a garden or deck—and does not demand extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Kadsura Japonica.

Light

The evergreen magnolia vine prefers moderate sun exposure but can also tolerate full sun. Its native habitat provides these light conditions, which support healthy growth. Too much sunlight can cause leaf scorch, while too little light may inhibit growth.

Water

The evergreen magnolia vine thrives in humid woodland environments where it can enjoy consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. It's moderately drought-tolerant, so it only needs watering every two weeks. Although it is often grown indoors, regularly misting the plant will help maintain the humidity levels it needs to grow well.

Temperature

The evergreen magnolia vine is native to temperate regions and prefers temperatures between 50 and 95 °F (10 and 35 ℃). Ideally, it should be kept cooler in winter to encourage dormancy.

Fertilizer

The Evergreen magnolia vine plant needs adequate nutrients for optimal fruit production. Fertilize in early spring to encourage new growth and bloom development. Regular fertilization keeps the plant healthy, helps it produce more flavorful fruit, and prevents nutrient deficiency problems like yellow leaves and poor fruit production.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Kadsura
Family
Schisandraceae
Hardiness Zone
6-9
Mature Height
2.44 m to 4.57 m
Mature Spread
3.96 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
White, Cream
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
South Korea, Japan, China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Japanese kadsura en False schisandra en Kadsura vine en Evergreen magnolia vine
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Evergreen magnolia vine in the best way?

To ensure excellent root development for your plants, consider these watering tips: 1. Place a garden hose at the base of the plant, avoiding direct spraying of the leaves. 2. If your plants are outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, keep in mind that the leaves will need more water. 3. Using bubblers or soaker hoses can help moisten the roots of each plant. 4. When adding or removing plants, use soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed to encourage deep root growth. 5. After watering, drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. 6. Watering at ground level can help prevent diseases. 7. On sunny days, spraying the entire bush with water might be beneficial. 8. Whether your plants are potted or in-ground, remember that Evergreen magnolia vine prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

Why should I put fertilizer on my Evergreen magnolia vine?

Plants need nutrients to keep growing and stay healthy. Fast growing plants, in particular, deplete the soil of nutrients quickly. It's important to regularly fertilize the Evergreen magnolia vine to give it an extra supply of nutrients. This will not only help the plant stay healthy, but also enable it to produce more delicious fruit. If plants are not fertilized for a long time, they can face various problems. One common issue is foliage problems, such as yellow leaves or leaves with a reddish color. Other problems include shape deformities, withered tips, or significant portions of the plant dying back. Some nutrient deficiencies can also lead to bark disorders, slow growth, poor shoot development, and a lack of fruit production.

How much sunlight does the Evergreen magnolia vine need to grow?

Evergreen magnolia vine needs both sunlight and shade to thrive. Ideally, it should receive 3-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably in the morning. However, during the hottest parts of the day, some shade is required to prevent sun damage. If the temperature is not too hot, the vine can tolerate some afternoon sun. To provide the perfect balance, consider planting the Evergreen magnolia vine in an area that receives partial sun, such as under a tree or on the east side of a building.

What temperature is best for Evergreen magnolia vine?

The Evergreen magnolia vine thrives best in temperatures between 65 and 80℉ (18-27℃). During its main growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is capable of surviving freezing winters, showing tolerance to low temperatures. For optimal growth, the recommended temperature range is: - Perfect: 65-80℉ (18-27℃) - Highest: 85-95℉ (30-35℃) - Lowest: -5 to 15℉ (-20 to -10℃) or lower.

What do I do if I give too much or too little water to the Evergreen magnolia vine?

An overwatered Evergreen magnolia vine can exhibit several symptoms. Its leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt, giving the plant a dull and unhealthy appearance. Mushy stems may also be present. It is important to adjust your watering schedule if you notice these signs. Wilting can also be a sign of under watering, which can be identified by crispy and dry leaves. In this case, a thorough watering may be necessary when the soil is dry, as simply adding water may not be enough. While the Evergreen magnolia vine will recover with sufficient water, it may still have dry and yellow leaves due to root damage. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. When caring for an indoor Evergreen magnolia vine, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look for black spots, which indicate excessive moisture, and allow the soil to dry out by refraining from watering for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you observe discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. It is important to prevent root rot by avoiding excessively soggy soil. When planting an Evergreen magnolia vine outdoors, dig a little deeper and assess the soil with your fingers. If it feels too dry, it may be underwatered, and proper watering is essential for the plant's recovery.

When should I fertilize my Evergreen magnolia vine for the best results?

The best time to fertilize Evergreen magnolia vine is in early spring, before the buds emerge. This is when the vine starts to come out of its winter dormancy and utilizes the stored reserves to produce new growth. To support the development of blooms, it is recommended to fertilize about 2 to 4 weeks before the expected blooming period. This allows enough time for the nutrients to penetrate the soil and be absorbed by the plant. You can continue to fertilize the Evergreen magnolia vine during spring, but it is advisable to avoid fertilizing in autumn. Fertilizing in autumn can lead to excessive foliage growth late in the season, which makes the leaves vulnerable to damage during winter.

What happens if the Evergreen magnolia vine doesn't get enough sunlight?

The Evergreen magnolia vine can experience negative effects when there is excessive direct sunlight. These effects include yellowing, drying out, and even burning of the leaves. Another sign of sun damage is wilting or stunted growth in the plant. To prevent these issues, it is important to provide some shade for the Evergreen magnolia vine during the hottest parts of the day. This can be achieved by using a shade cloth or planting the vine near taller plants that can naturally provide some shade.

Do I need to change the temperature for Evergreen magnolia vine at different stages of growth?

Research demonstrates that prolonged periods of higher temperatures, specifically during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots, can cause stunted growth in the Evergreen magnolia vine. To promote strong growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent cooler temperatures around 65°F (18°C).

How frequently should I give water to my Evergreen magnolia vine?

The Evergreen magnolia vine requires deep and infrequent watering, particularly when planted in pots. Pots have limited water storage, so the soil dries out faster. In cold regions, water every 3 to 5 days, preferably in the morning when the soil is dry. Check the soil by feeling the top 2-3 inches; if dry, water thoroughly. During hot days, check moisture daily as the soil can quickly dry out. For gardens, water once a week in hot climates or when the top 2-3 inches of soil becomes too dry. Consider rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Add 3-4 inches of mulch outdoors to conserve water. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering, while clay soil requires less to avoid root rot. Keep track of watering dates and watch for drooping leaves as an indicator of needing water.

When is the best time to not fertilize my Evergreen magnolia vine?

Here are some tips for fertilizing Evergreen magnolia vine: 1. Avoid fertilizing in the first year of growth. If you do fertilize, be cautious and make sure it's necessary. 2. If you pruned 20% or more of the plant the previous year, don't fertilize. 3. If the plant is diseased or damaged, hold off on fertilizing as it can do more harm than good. Address the root cause first. 4. Don't fertilize after the peak of summer, as this can cause excessive growth before winter. 5. Avoid fertilizing during hot and dry times of the year, as dry soil is not as effective in delivering fertilizer and the plant may require more water. 6. It's best to fertilize earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. 7. Be cautious about inadvertently giving nearby plants or lawns a double-dose of fertilizer, as Evergreen magnolia vine can absorb it.

What happens if Evergreen magnolia vine gets too much sunlight?

If the Evergreen magnolia vine doesn't receive sufficient sunlight, it might grow tall and skinny, with not many leaves. The leaves may also become yellow or pale green, showing that the plant is not making enough chlorophyll due to a lack of sunlight. To fix this issue, you can try relocating the Evergreen magnolia vine to a sunnier area or trim nearby foliage to let more light reach the plant.

How do I make sure the Evergreen magnolia vine stays warm during cold seasons?

The evergreen magnolia vine is able to tolerate freezing temperatures if it is planted directly in the ground in areas that do not drop below 15℉(-10℃) during winter. However, if the vine is planted in pots or containers, it is important to protect its roots from the cold. This can be done by wrapping the container with a blanket or bringing it indoors where it will be completely shielded from the elements.

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