Family: Cobaeaceae
Common Name: Cup and Saucer Vine

Only one species of this small genus of perennial climbing plants, native to Mexico, is cultivated, often as an annual. When the flower is turned upside down, the large green calyx forms a saucer for the cup-shaped bloom, hence the common name. These vines are used for covering pergolas and other garden structures and bear late summer flowers.

Species

C. scandens, a fast-growing, rampant vine, is the species most commonly grown. It produces striking flowers, 5 cm (2 in) in diameter, in creamish green, turning to lilac and purple. The form alba has white flowers. This species grows to at least 10 m (33 ft) in height and clings by means of tendrils.

Cultivation

In climates prone to frost, grow as a summer annual outdoors, or in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Outdoors, grow in a soil enriched with compost or manure and water regularly, particularly when the plant is young. This vine prefers a sunny position. Pinch back the growing tips to produce a bushier plant. By early winter it generally looks unsightly. It is often easier to remove it rather than prune it. As propagation is easy, a new plant can be started for the next season. Grow from seed, which has been notched before sowing, and plant just under the surface of the soil.

Climate

Zone 9.