Purple Akebi is a cylindrical to oblong fruit, averaging 10-13 centimeters in length, that delicately hangs from trailing vines. There are multiple varieties of akebi fruit varying in size and appearance, but the skin is generally thick, spongy, and semi-firm with a soft give when squeezed. Five-leaf Akebia and Three-leaf Akebia are the plants that produce Akebi fruit.
Flavor
Akebi fruits vary greatly in flavor, even within the same species. Some fruits have a complex flavor resembling passionfruit, banana, and lychee, while some have been described as flavorless.
Uses
Akebi can be used in many ways, from stuffing or deep frying the rinds, to mixing the pulp with other fruits and ingredients to make smoothies and other drinks. Even the young shoots and leaves are used in pickling or teas.
Known as the chocolate vine, this wild climbing plant grows in China, Japan and Korea.
Gallery
Ripe Akebia trifoliata fruit
Akebia quinata leaves and flowers
Female flowers of Akebia quinata (large) and male (small)
Early fruit of Akebia quinata
Akebia quinata flower
Early fruit of Akebia quinata
Pinker more magenta fruits of an A. quinata
Bluish variety of A. trifoliata
Reference
12"Akebia Decne". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2020-10-10.
