Family: Bignoniaceae

Related to bignonias, these South American, evergreen climbers are very strong growers, sup-porting themselves by tendrils. They provide rich midwinter colour. In their natural environment, flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds.

Species

P. venusta (Synonym: P. ignea), flame vine, the most commonly cultivated species, is grown mainly for its brilliant display of fiery orange, tubular-shaped flowers, in pendulous clusters.

Cultivation

Outside the subtropics and tropics, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory in a large pot or tub of soil-based potting compost. If available, add extra grit and some leaf mould. Ensure maximum light. Support the stems and train into the roof area. Outdoors grow in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Prune after flowering by cutting back sideshoots to within four buds of the main stems. Propagate from seed sown in spring, or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, both in a heated propagating case.

Climate

Zone 10.