These fast growing herbaceous vines quickly cover wires or a trellis to make an attractive screen, decorate an arch, or provide shade against a sunny wall. They can grow over 20’ in a season, dying back to the ground each year

in most climates. Space plants at least 8’ apart. The bitter flavor of the highly aromatic cone-like flowers is used to flavor beer. They thrive in a rich well drained soil and the cones are ready for harvest in the fall. Young shoots may be used in salads or as an asparagus substitute.