Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys): The Spectacular Turquoise Climber

Few flowers rival the otherworldly beauty of Strongylodon macrobotrys, the Jade Vine, Emerald Creeper, or Flor-de-Jade. Its cascading chains of claw-shaped, turquoise-to-jade-green flowers are a breathtaking sight in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Botanical Profile

Growing the Jade Vine

Native to the Philippine rainforests, this vigorous woody vine requires a sturdy support—pergolas, arbors, or large trellises—to display its pendulous racemes, which can reach 3 feet long. It flourishes in warm, humid conditions with bright, filtered light and rich, well-drained soil. In its native habitat, it's pollinated by bats; in cultivation, hand-pollination may be needed for seed set.

Jade Vine is frost-tender (zones 10–11). In cooler climates, it's a prized conservatory or greenhouse specimen. The surreal flower color—ranging from mint green to deep turquoise—makes it a coveted collector's plant. Provide ample space, humidity, and patience; flowering typically begins when the vine is several years old.