Does usually need some support initially, until it gets going and starts clinging tenaciously to any surface all by itself, so you can use trellis if you want, or just a few bamboo canes will do.

That's what I would do.

In northern Arizona, they just cut it to the ground if it doesn't start climbing the first year. The vigorous shoots from the roots nearly always start clinging right away.

Well, what a good idea, Tugbrethil, saves all that mucking about with temporary supports till it gets going.

Thank you so much for the advice, much appreciated.