about the product
Stephania erecta, also known as Stephania pierrei, is native to Indochina, mainly Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. In nature, it grows as a climbing caudex plant in tropical forests, deciduous woodland and scrub areas.
sizing
Size approximately 100–105 mm wide (equivalent to around 10–15 years old)
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Thailand, Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam
Tropical dry forest / deciduous forest habitat
Often grows in warm, seasonal areas with filtered light and well-draining soil
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Summer → active growth
Usually grows best from around September to March
Produces long thin vines with round shield-like green leaves
Small yellowish flowers may appear before or during leaf growth
Autumn – Winter → semi-dormant to dormant
May drop most or all leaves from June to August
Leaf drop during winter is normal due to cooler nights and lower light
Soil
Very fast draining mix
Mineral-heavy soil strongly recommended
Pumice, lava rock, coarse sand & small gravel work well
Use only a small amount of organic matter
Avoid rich, water-retentive potting mix
Watering
Water deeply only when fully dry
Spring – Summer → light to regular watering, depending on heat and airflow
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Autumn → gradually reduce watering
Winter → keep almost dry, especially from June to August
Do not water on cold, cloudy or rainy days
Light
Bright indirect light to gentle morning sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong filtered light encourages healthy vine and leaf growth
Protect from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with bright light and good airflow
Temperature
Best: 20–28°C
Winter nights can be too cool and damp for active growth
Winter minimum: 12–15°C recommended
Keep warm, dry and well ventilated during cold periods
Move indoors or under cover during long rainy winter weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.