Perennial vine of therapeutic qualities, native to Southeast Asia. The usable parts of the plant are leaves and young shoots containing many vitamins and minerals such as selenium, magnesium, zinc, calcium, iron, potassium, manganese and phosphorus. Fresh and dried leaves are used in herbal infusions or as an additive in fruit teas or salads. Leaves and shoots can be acquired throughout the growing season. The plant thrives in rich soil, in well lit but not excessively sunny locations. It tolerates frosts up to –15°C, therefore it can be cultivated in soil only in warmer regions and should be carefully covered before winter. It grows just as well in containers – on a balcony or a terrace in summer season and during winter in a cool but not frosty location. It can also be cultivated indoors (e.g. kitchen) throughout the year. Leaves: light-green, five-leaflet, pubescent. Maximum height: in natural locations up to 4-8 meters. Pruning: the plant is perennial so if cultivated in soil all shoots should be pruned directly over ground early in spring.