Unusual, rampant vine of yellow flowers 1-2 cm in diameter, consisting of 5-10 sepals, dioecious. Its natural habitat is on hillsides of south-central and south-west China, from 500 to 2500 m above sea level. Flowers borne in May in the axils at the new shoots base. They are sometimes delicately scented. Fruit red, edible. The leaves are seasonal feature, glossy dark green, eliptic or ovate, serrated, 7-15 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. New shoots are light green and turn brown with numerous lighter spiracles when mature. Shoots twine around supports. The plant reaches 3-6 m height with an annual growth rate of 102 m. Blooms most abundantly in sheltered sites, warm but not overheated. Tolerates average, well-drained soil. Tends to freeze during harsh winters. Suitable for growing by fences, trellises, arbours and other tall garden supports.