How to Grow Immortality
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Immortality
Gynostemma pentaphyllum
herbImmortality, commonly known as Jiaogulan or 'herb of immortality,' is a climbing vine native to Southeast Asia prized in traditional medicine. It produces small green flowers and heart-shaped leaflets with a slightly sweet, grassy flavor. The plant is valued for its adaptogenic properties and has been used in Asian wellness practices for centuries.
When should you plant Immortality in your zone?
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Example Immortality timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Immortality
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Immortality
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Immortality dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-11; can be grown as an annual or tender perennial in zones 6-7
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Get my Immortality timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons followed by first true leaves; very delicate
Keep soil warm (70-75°F) and consistently moist; provide bright indirect light; use humidity dome if available
Vegetative
4-8 weeksPlant develops climbing vines with multiple heart-shaped leaflets arranged in groups of 5-7; stems become woody
Provide trellis or support structure; pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth; maintain consistent moisture
Established Growth
2-3 monthsVines grow vigorously with dense foliage; plant becomes more drought-tolerant; root system deepens
Allow plant to climb or sprawl; moderate fertilizing with balanced fertilizer; mulch base to retain moisture
Flowering
6-8 weeks (varies by season)Small greenish-white or pale yellow flowers appear in clusters; flowers are inconspicuous but fragrant
Ensure adequate light for flower development; maintain consistent watering; flowers will self-pollinate
Seed Development & Harvest
Ongoing through seasonSmall round seed pods develop following flowers; foliage continues to thicken and mature; medicinal potency increases
Light harvesting of leaves begins; allow some flowers to set seed for next season; continue regular maintenance
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; mist foliage; use neem oil spray if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants
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Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil; treat with neem oil spray weekly until resolved
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
Uses
Adaptogenic tonic tea
MedicinalJiaogulan is traditionally brewed as a soothing tea with adaptatogenic properties that may help the body manage stress and support overall wellness. The leaves are dried and steeped in hot water to create a mild, naturally sweet beverage. [source]
Fresh salads and smoothies
CulinaryYoung tender leaves can be eaten fresh in salads, added to smoothies, or used as a mild herbal garnish. The flavor is slightly sweet with grassy notes, making it palatable for fresh consumption. [source]
Traditional wellness supplement
MedicinalIn Traditional Chinese Medicine and Asian herbalism, Jiaogulan is known as an 'immortality herb' and is used to support longevity, stamina, and immune function. It contains saponins believed to have adaptogenic and antioxidant properties. [source]
Indoor air purification
HouseholdAs a climbing vine, Immortality can be grown indoors as an ornamental houseplant on a trellis or moss pole, adding greenery while potentially improving air quality in the home. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe small flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making it a beneficial plant for supporting pollinator populations in herb gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin light harvesting of leaves 8-12 weeks after planting; pinch off top 2-3 inches of vine growth; harvest in morning after dew dries; can be harvested fresh year-round in warm climates; for dried tea, harvest mature leaves and dry in shade or dehydrator at low temperature (95-105°F); plant becomes more potent and harvestable after the first full year of growth
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Immortality (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is called the 'herb of immortality' in Chinese herbalism (Xiangxue) and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, with some sources claiming it was known to Chinese hermits seeking longevity.
- 🌱 The plant contains gypenosides, a group of saponins not found in other commonly cultivated plants, which may account for its unique wellness properties attributed to it in traditional medicine.
- 🌱 Jiaogulan is a perennial vine that can live for many years if grown in warm climates, and some cultivated specimens are reported to be decades old, reinforcing its 'immortality' reputation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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