Bay star vine (Schisandra glabra)

Bay star vine

Also known as: Wild sarsaparilla

The plant is monoecious, with staminate (male, pollen-producing) and pistillate (female, seed-producing) flowers separate on the same plant. Sepals are whitish, petals pink or red. Berries are red, spherical to ellipsoid, up to 1.5 cm long. It can be found in wooded bluffs, hillsides and ravines at elevations less than 500 m.

Scientific classification

Species

Bay star vine (Schisandra glabra)

Austrobaileya, anises, and allies

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Green, Blue

Leaf Color

Red, Burgundy

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Red, Orange, Gold

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Bay star vine

Quickly Identify Bay star vine

Vibrant orange flowers with 5 dark orange and 5 yellow-green tepals, blooming late spring.

Elliptical-ovate to heart-shaped leaves, 1-6 inches long, prominent reticulated veins, turning yellow in fall.

Bright red berries with red-brown seeds, ripe in July-August, glossy surface texture.

Smooth pale brown stem maturing to dark brown, tan hues, 0.5-1 inch diameter.

Flaking dark gray-brown bark resembling aged parchment, layered texture, less than 6 mm thickness.

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Care Guide for Bay star vine

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

Water: Originating from moist woodlands, bay star vine prefers consistent humidity and evenly moist, well-draining soil. For optimal health, water bay star vine every three weeks to balance moisture levels. Typically grown outdoors, it thrives in conditions that mimic its natural leaf-littered habitat.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, bay star vine requires balanced fertilizers monthly during growth and bi-monthly when dormant. Use 1/4 strength to avoid over-fertilization. Early spring high-nitrogen boosts promote healthy growth. Monitor for overfeeding signs and adjust feeding based on seasonal changes.

Pruning: Bay star vine thrives with regular pruning in early spring, promoting healthy growth and enhancing fruit production. Key practices include removing dead stems, thinning congested areas, and shaping vigorous shoots. Consistent pruning encourages a vibrant, manageable plant size.

Propagation: Bay star vine is a resilient woody vine that thrives in moist, well-drained soils with partial to full shade. Propagation via cuttings is effective; use healthy semi-hardwood segments treated with rooting hormone in a sterile medium. Consistent moisture and warmth promote robust root development.

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