Gynostemma pentaphyllum JIAOGULAN (plant)

Plant of Immortality, also known as Jiaogulan, is a high-growth Chinese and Japanese climber that quickly covers vertical areas by winding itself around supports. It possesses tendrils located just above each leaf that twist around supports, allowing it to grow rapidly. Its leaves are palmate, generally composed of 5 to 7 highly veined leaflets.

Its foliage is very dense; it can easily cover a 2-square-meter trellis in just one year.

- Uses:

The Herbal Elixir of Asia:

Jiaogulan is a vigorous vine that fascinates botanists with its exceptional biochemical composition. Native to the humid forests of China and Japan, this climbing plant is at the heart of Eastern herbal traditions. Nicknamed the "herb of longevity," it has been historically cultivated for its evergreen leaves, which release a sweet flavor often used as a natural sugar alternative in artisanal preparations.

Between Ethnobotany and Japanese Folklore:

In the Land of the Rising Sun, Jiaogulan is known as Amachazuru, or "sweet tea vine." Local legends report that populations consuming this infusion daily display remarkable vitality—a phenomenon that has drawn researchers' attention to its specific saponins (gypenosides). As an adaptogenic plant, it is valued for its ability to stabilize the body's natural balance against external stressors.

The consumption of Jiaogulan, though rooted in traditional use, requires a cautious approach. Its powerful active principles may interfere with certain medical treatments. It is imperative to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before any regular use. This product is intended for botanical or collector use.

- Planting and Cultivation:

• Transplant the Centenarians Tea into a 5-liter pot with good quality horticultural potting soil, taking care not to cover the collar of the plant.
• Water copiously at the base of the plant during planting.
• Place the base of the plant in a shaded area while allowing the aerial system (the vines) to grow in the sun.
• It is also possible to plant it directly in the garden in a cool, moist spot.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

It thrives in well-draining substrates with a slightly acidic pH, ideally composed with a bit of leaf compost.

- Light / Sunlight:

Gynostemma pentaphyllum grows very well in bright light. You should find a location with full sun for its aerial system and a shaded exposure for its base/roots.

- Hardiness / Growing Zone:

This vine grows very well when temperatures fluctuate between 20°C and 35°C. It is a hardy plant that can easily withstand temperatures down to -10°C, although the aerial parts will disappear during the winter period (die back to the ground).

- Irrigation / Water Needs:

It requires some watering during the summer period. It is not necessary to irrigate regularly in winter, as the plant enters a period of vegetative dormancy.

- Pests and Diseases:

It is not prone to diseases. However, certain pests such as slugs and snails occasionally attack its foliage.