How to Grow Jiaogulan
Gynostemma pentaphyllum
Jiaogulan is a vigorous climbing herb from Asia that dies back to the roots in frost and regrows each spring in zones 7+. In colder gardens grow it as an annual. Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade with a sturdy trellis or fence to climb. Water regularly and feed monthly through the growing season. Harvest young leaves and shoot tips from late spring onward for tea or drying — pick before flowering for the best flavour. Cut back hard in late autumn after frost kills the top growth and mulch the crown well in zones 7-8.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser from spring through to early autumn. A nitrogen-rich feed in spring encourages vigorous leafy growth for harvest.
Watch For
- Spider mites in dry conditions
- Aphids on young shoot tips
- Powdery mildew in humid, still air
- Root rot if soil stays waterlogged
Companions
Mint, Lemon Balm, Passionflower, Climbing Roses, Clematis
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to part shade
Grows best in full sun but tolerates part shade, especially in hotter climates. At least 4-6 hours of direct sun per day for good leaf production.
Watering
Regular watering; moist but well-drained
Water consistently through the growing season to keep soil evenly moist. Jiaogulan dislikes both drought and waterlogging. Reduce watering as growth dies back in autumn.
Fertilizing
Monthly balanced feed, spring to early autumn
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring through early autumn. A nitrogen-rich feed in spring encourages vigorous leafy growth for harvest.
Pruning
Trim regularly; cut back hard in autumn
Trim shoots throughout the growing season to keep growth tidy and stimulate bushy regrowth. Cut hard back to a low framework in late autumn after frost.
Spacing
60 cm apart with support
Space plants 60 cm apart along a trellis or fence. Each plant can spread 1-2 m wide once established and needs something to twine around.
Support
Trellis or fence required
Jiaogulan twines vigorously and needs a sturdy trellis, fence, or arch to 2-4 m. Install before planting — the vine establishes fast.
Growing Tips
Provide strong support
Jiaogulan is a vigorous twining climber that can reach 3-8 m. Install a sturdy trellis, wire fence, or arch before planting — it will cover flimsy supports in weeks.
Harvest before flowering
Leaves taste best and are most potent before the plant flowers. Once flowering begins, harvest regularly to delay seed set and keep the plant producing fresh growth.
Protect roots in winter
In zone 7-8, mulch the crown heavily with straw or bark chip after the first frost. The top growth dies but healthy roots regrow reliably in spring.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 100 cm |
| Mature height | 400 cm |
| Mature spread | 200 cm |
Space 60 cm apart along a trellis or fence. Climbs vigorously to 3-8 m and needs strong support. Can be grown in large containers with a trellis.
