How to Grow Supplejack
Supplejack
Ripogonum scandens
vineSupplejack is a native New Zealand climbing vine known for its flexible, rope-like stems that can reach considerable lengths through forest canopies. It produces small greenish flowers followed by bright red berries that persist on the plant and are important food for native birds. The vine is valued both ecologically and ornamentally for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits.
When should you plant Supplejack in your zone?
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Example Supplejack timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Supplejack
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 Supplejack
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Supplejack dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11, best in temperate maritime climates like New Zealand
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Get my Supplejack timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung vine developing initial root system and producing first true leaves; growth is relatively slow
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide light support structure; protect from strong winds and frost
Vegetative Growth
12-24 monthsVine produces flexible stems with distinctive oval leaves, extending along supports and developing climbing tendrils
Guide vine along trellis or support structure; prune to control shape and remove dead wood; maintain moderate watering
Flowering
2-3 months (spring to early summer)Small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers appear in clusters along the stems
Maintain regular watering and balanced nutrients; avoid heavy pruning during flowering; do not fertilize excessively with nitrogen
Fruiting
4-6 months (summer to winter)Bright red berries develop and ripen, becoming attractive to native birds and wildlife; berries persist on vine for months
Do not prune heavily during fruiting; allow birds natural access; monitor for pests; maintain moderate watering
Dormancy
2-3 months (winter)Vine slows growth in cooler months; foliage may lighten but remains largely evergreen
Reduce watering slightly; minimal pruning except for dead or damaged wood; protect in frost-prone areas
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; prune affected stems; spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; encourage beneficial insects
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Remove by hand or soft brush; spray with diluted insecticidal soap; improve air circulation through pruning
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and
Ensure good drainage and air circulation; remove infected leaves; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Native bird food source
WildlifeThe persistent red berries provide essential food for native New Zealand birds including tui, bellbirds, and kereru during autumn and winter months. Supplejack is a keystone species in forest ecosystems. [source]
Traditional Māori food
CulinarySupplejack berries and young shoots were traditionally eaten by Māori people; berries can be eaten raw or cooked. The flavor is mild and somewhat sweet. [source]
Flexible stems for basketry and crafts
CraftThe remarkably flexible and strong stems can be woven into baskets, rope, and other craft items; traditionally used by Māori for various applications. The supple nature gives the plant its English name. [source]
Natural privacy screen and ornament
HouseholdFast-growing once established, supplejack makes an excellent living screen or vertical garden feature on trellises, arbors, and pergolas. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage. [source]
Traditional medicinal uses
MedicinalIn traditional Māori medicine, various parts of supplejack were used for treating ailments; modern scientific validation of these uses is limited but ethnobotanical knowledge persists. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries are ripe when bright red (typically autumn to winter); harvest by hand or allow birds to naturally harvest; no commercial harvest of established vines is typical; some sources indicate traditional harvesting of young shoots for food and fiber
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The Māori name for supplejack is 'kōhia' or 'kōwhai parauri', and it has been used by Māori people for over 700 years for food, fiber, and medicine.
- 🌱 Supplejack stems can reach lengths of 20+ meters in ideal conditions, climbing high into forest canopies in its native New Zealand habitat.
- 🌱 The vine's flexibility is so remarkable that it was traditionally twisted into strong rope and cordage; a single mature vine can provide substantial usable fiber.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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