Stephania pierrei – rare caudex plant with climbing vines


Stephania pierrei Diels, still widely known under its synonym Stephania erecta Craib, is a remarkable caudiciform plant with a spherical woody base up to 30 cm in diameter. Each spring, delicate climbing stems emerge, producing rounded peltate leaves and small yellowish flowers. In winter the plant retreats into dormancy, leaving its sculptural caudex exposed.
 
● Important note on availability


For ethical reasons we no longer offer Stephania pierrei for sale. This species has been subject to significant overcollection in the wild, threatening natural populations. Until sustainable, verifiable cultivation sources are established, we choose not to trade this plant. We encourage collectors to research the conservation issues surrounding Stephania pierrei before seeking it elsewhere.
 
● Unique features of Stephania pierrei


The caudex resembles a stone-like bonsai trunk, storing water to survive dormancy. From this base, twining vines emerge seasonally, often growing several metres long. Leaves are almost perfectly circular with a central petiole attachment, giving a parasol effect. When trained on a support, the plant creates a curtain of elegant foliage above its sculptural caudex.
 
● Taxonomy and natural background


Described by Ludwig Diels in 1910 (Pflanzenreich IV 94: 276), this species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Indochina. It was first introduced as Stephania erecta Craib, but later reclassified as Stephania pierrei in honour of French botanist Jean Baptiste Louis Pierre. Its natural habitat is seasonally dry forest, where the caudex allows survival through periods without rain.
 
● How to care for Stephania pierrei (informational)


Light: Bright, indirect light, avoiding harsh midday sun.
Water: During growth, water when top soil dries; in dormancy, keep almost dry, only enough to prevent shrivelling.
Substrate: Fast-draining mineral mix; avoid heavy soils.
Temperature and humidity: Prefers warmth (18 – 30 °C); protect from cold below 12 °C.
Fertilizer: Balanced, diluted fertiliser during active growth; none during dormancy.
Support: Provide trellis or hoop for vines to climb.
Common issues
Rot: Almost always from overwatering or poor drainage during dormancy.
No shoots in spring: Dormancy may be prolonged; check caudex firmness and wait for warmth.
Weak vines: Caused by low light or poor feeding.
 
● Etymology


Stephania comes from Greek stephanos (“crown”), referencing the crown-shaped anther arrangement in flowers. The epithet pierrei honours Jean Baptiste Louis Pierre. The synonym erecta refers to the upright shoots sprouting from the caudex.
 
● Conservation message


Stephania pierrei is at risk from unsustainable collection in its native range. Please support conservation by only obtaining plants from verified cultivated sources. We actively avoid trading in wild-collected material and focus on sustainable horticulture.