This perennial can be grown as a vine or ground cover. It can reach a length of 40 feet with a spread of 9 feet. It blooms in early spring with purple-chocolate colored flowers. It does produce an edible fruit, but more than one plant is required for good pollination. Prune in late spring after the flowers appear to keep the size of the plant in check. It prefers moist, sandy loams that are well drained in full sun, but it will tolerate partial shade.