The bright red flowers of this rare climbing plant are quite spectacular and appear in large, hanging clusters. They produce a lot of nectar, attracting birds in particular for pollination. It is a large climbing plant from the tropical rainforest of New Guinea that can reach a height of 10-15 metres.Â
Six other red Mucuna species occur in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, with 2 species being very similar to this
Mucuna bennettii:
Mucuna novo-guineensis and
Mucuna warburgii. As a result, there is frequent confusion about the correct identification, but there are clear differences. First, the seeds of
Mucuna bennettii have a size of 21-36 mm, while the seeds of
Mucuna novo-guineensis are larger at 37-47 mm. The difference between
Mucuna bennettii and
Mucuna warburgii lies in two other characteristics. First, the pods of
Mucuna bennettii contain 2-7 seeds while those of
Mucuna warburgii contain 8-10 seeds. And second, the leaves of
Mucuna bennettii have no stipules while those of
Mucuna warburgii do. These are minor differences, but therefore important to look out for when identify these similar plant species.Â
The red jade vine can be kept as a houseplant, where it can be pruned well. Provide a sunny location and well-drained soil to prevent root rot. The plant meanders so it is advisable to guide its growth with string or a rack.Â
Sowing description: The seed can be scarified on 1 spot on the side with sandpaper until a colour difference becomes visible. Then soak in water for 24 hours and sow in
sowing soil. Germination usually after a few weeks at 25-30grC.Â
