Chocolate-scented flowers are unusual among hardy perennials, so this one attribute may endear thisflowering vineto growers.
The vine produces glossy dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow in clusters of five.
Expect this vine to grow quickly and vigorously, adding as much as 40 feet a growing season.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Chocolate vine fruit is edible but not very palatable.
Consider the mature size of the chocolate vine when incorporating this plant into your landscape design.
This isnt a specimen that will daintily clamber up your mailbox.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Warning
Chocolate vine is an aggressive spreader.
It’s formally considered invasive throughout much of the eastern United States.
Light
Chocolate vine is veryshade tolerantand will grow well in covered woodland controls.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
That being said, the best flowering and fruiting will occur when the plant is located in full sun.
Proper drainage is also essential for the vine.
Temperature and Humidity
Chocolate vine does best in moderate temperatures between 55 to 85 degrees.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
In the harsh winter weather, the vine may lose its leaves but will regrow them in the spring.
While not the ideal choice for humid environments, the vine does tolerate some humidity in the air.
Fertilizer
Chocolate vine is a light feeder and doesnt require supplementalflower fertilizer.
you could provide trace nutrients for vines growing in poor soil by mulching withcompostor well-rotted manure.
Generally, the vine will grow prolifically without much intervention.
Use clean, sharppruning shearsto minimize damage.
In addition to lots of sunlight, you’ll want to double-check your chocolate vine gets the right nutrients.
Phosphorus is also important to a successfully blooming chocolate vine.
Be prepared to re-pot frequently or cut the plant back often.
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.
