Wu Wei Zi, Chinese Magnolia Vine

This species has been cultivated in China for centuries due to its medical value and scientifically proven virtues as an adaptogen. Altho...Read Moreugh this species (and other members of the genus) often appear dioecious, they are actually monoecious, albeit of limited (or no) self-fertility. Seeds among this and other members of the genus tend to be stubborn germinators, which means propagation in commerce is often achieved via layered or air layered cuttings. Credible literature suggests best germination results are achieved when seeds are collected from fully ripened fruit, and submitted to moist warm, cold, warm stratification. I have found that seeds soaked in water (or 300ppm GA3) overnight, then placed into moist (not wet) sand and kept inside a sealed container will begin to germinate sporadically in 60-90 days when subjected to naturally oscillating warm-cool temperatures that range from 25-65F (-4 to 18C). Germinating seeds should be potted and kept at room temperature and in moist (not wet) potting soil in an environment with consistently good humidity. Keeping the small pot inside a resealable clear plastic bag has worked perfectly thus far.

As revered and well-studied as this species is in Chinese culture, it remains relatively rare in Western commerce. It is nonetheless not as rare in commerce as the North American native, Schisandra glabra, which has been demonstrated via scientific study to possess the same virtues as its dysjunctive cousin.

Unless one resides in a mountain valley at altitude, with the benefit of cool, misty summers, this species succeeds in a shady position, with consistently moist, rich soil, and can become stressed during periods of prolonged summer heat or dry summer air.

Binghamton, NY here. I have mine in a very shady spot on the north side of a fence under a butternut tree -- so shady that I only have to...Read More mow there twice a summer. It is only in its 3rd year and is producing 10 clusters of berries that are just now completely red, but not quite ripe. I'm wondering if the birds and squirrels will eat them all before they are ripe; so far they have ignored them. I am thinking of planting them around my back porch.

Plant is great covering a fence in dense shade. It has insignificant white flowers, followed by beautiful panicles of red-orange berries ...Read Morein the fall. The vine is agressive and can grow 3-25 feet a year! The berries are used medicinally and as a food. (Not your grandmother's blueberries to my palate.)