Strongylodon macrobotrys
Strongylodon macrobotrys A.Gray
Jade Vine is a spectacular tropical climber with cascading clusters of luminous turquoise claw-shaped flowers. Endemic to the Philippines, this rare legume is one of the most stunning flowering vines in the world.
Fabaceae (Pea family, Leguminosae)
Late spring to early summer (March-June), can bloom sporadically year-round in ideal conditions
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: tibouchina urvilleanas and blue puyas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Jade Vine is a national treasure of the Philippines and symbolizes the country's unique biodiversity. In its native Tagalog language, it is called "tayabak." The flowers are edible and consumed as vegetables in the Philippines. Introduced to Hawaii by the Allertons of Kauai in 1950, it gained fame when Betty Low Ho won the 1956 Lei Day Contest with jade vine leis. The extraordinary turquoise color results from copigmentation of anthocyanins and flavonoids under alkaline conditions. As an endangered species, it represents the urgent need for rainforest conservation and the specialized relationships between plants and their pollinators (nectar-feeding bats).Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade, prefers sun on canopy with shaded roots
Water
Regular moisture, keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Soil
Well-drained, Rich in organic matter, Moist, Fertile loam, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Provide strong support structure 6-10 feet tall minimum
Plant in rich organic soil with excellent drainage
Water regularly, especially during flowering
Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during growing season
Not frost-hardy; minimum temperature 59-60 degrees F (15 degrees C)
Grows best in USDA zones 10-12
Propagate by air layering, semi-ripe cuttings, or fresh seeds
Protect from salt spray and strong winds
Takes 3 years from planting to first flowering
Requires bat pollinators in nature
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular specimen vine for tropical gardens
- Arbor and pergola coverage
- Greenhouse and conservatory centerpiece
- Botanical garden collections
- Lei making in Hawaii
- Wedding and special event decorations
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Strongylodon macrobotrys
Why is jade vine so rare?
Jade Vine is rare due to habitat loss in Philippine rainforests, specialized pollination by bats, and specific growing requirements. It is considered endangered in the wild and challenging to cultivate outside its native range.
What makes jade vine flowers turquoise?
The unique turquoise color results from copigmentation of malvin (an anthocyanin) and saponarin (a flavone) in alkaline conditions. The color is unlike almost any other flower in nature.
How long does it take jade vine to bloom?
Jade Vine typically takes about 3 years from planting to produce its first flowers. Once established, it blooms mainly in late spring to early summer, with possible sporadic blooms year-round in optimal conditions.
Can you grow jade vine from seeds?
Yes, but seeds must be fresh as they do not store well. Propagation is also successful through air layering or semi-ripe cuttings. Air layering and cuttings often produce flowering plants faster than seeds.
Are jade vine flowers edible?
Yes, jade vine flowers are edible and are consumed as vegetables in the Philippines, similar to other legume flowers. However, the plant is primarily grown for its spectacular ornamental value.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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