About
Fallopia baldschuanica, Russian vine or mile-a-minute plant, is one of the most vigorous of all climbing plants, a fast-growing, woody, twining, deciduous climber to 12 m or more with heart-shaped, mid-green leaves. From midsummer to autumn, loose, branching clusters of tiny, pink-flushed, white flowers appear in profusion, followed by small, pinkish fruits. Best used where very vigorous coverage is needed.
About the genus
Fallopia are fast-growing, twining, deciduous vines and spreading shrubs in the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae), producing heart-shaped leaves and dense panicles of small, pink-tinged white flowers. They range from extremely vigorous climbers to spreading perennials.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesMixed borders, hedging, foundation planting.
Native toPakistan to Tadzhikistan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor, moderately fertile moist, but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Provide strong durable supports. Pruning is required to keep this very vigorous climber under control. Please see further advice on plants which have the potential to become a nuisance
PruningPruning group 11 - trim to fit in the space available.
PropagationPropagate by seed sown containers and place in a cold frame in spring or as soon as seed is ripe. Take heeled semi-ripe cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf minor
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free