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What is the difference between Jiaogulan and Cayratia japonica? A quick guide to tell them apart

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Leaf differences: Jiaogulan leaves are ovate-oblong with wavy teeth along the edges; Cayratia japonica leaves are obovate. Flower differences: Jiaogulan flowers form panicle-like inflorescences and are pale green or white; Cayratia japonica flowers are pale green and grow in axillary cymes. Fruit differences: Jiaogulan fruit is spherical and turns black when ripe; Cayratia japonica berries are ovate and turn purple-black when ripe.

I. Leaf differences

The leaflets of Jiaogulan are ovate-oblong or lanceolate, 3 to 12 cm long and about 1.5 to 4 cm wide, with sharp tips and gradually narrowing bases. The leaf edges have wavy teeth or round-toothed teeth, dark green above and pale green beneath, with short stiff hairs on both sides, flat above and raised beneath.

The leaves of Cayratia japonica are alternate and membranous, obovate or long elliptic, 2 to 7 cm long, with sharp tips, obtuse bases and coarse serrated edges.

II. Flower differences

Jiaogulan flowers form panicle-like inflorescences, 10 to 15 cm long, and are pale green or white.

Cayratia japonica flowers are pale green and grow in axillary cymes.

III. Fruit differences

Jiaogulan fruit is fleshy and spherical, 5 to 6 mm in diameter, turning black when ripe, smooth and hairless.

Cayratia japonica berries are ovate and turn purple-black after ripening.

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