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Description
Cobaea Scandens, commonly known as Cup and Saucer Vine, is a fast-growing, evergreen vine native to Mexico and Central America. This vine is known for its striking flowers, which resemble a cup and saucer, with a deep purple calyx and a pale green corolla. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall and are followed by seed pods that are approximately 3 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Cobaea |
Appearance
Cobaea Scandens is a climbing vine that can reach up to 20 feet in length. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate, reaching up to 6 inches in length. The flowers are the most striking feature of this vine, with a deep purple calyx that is approximately 2 inches in diameter and a pale green corolla that reaches up to 3 inches in diameter. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that are initially green but turn brown and woody as they mature.
Care Guide
Cobaea Scandens is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips for caring for this vine:
- Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Cobaea Scandens is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cobaea Scandens is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: These small, moth-like insects can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Cobaea Scandens is native to Mexico and Central America and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. This vine prefers warm, humid conditions and can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. It can also be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Cobaea Scandens?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cobaea Scandens?
A: Cobaea Scandens is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: How tall can Cobaea Scandens grow?
A: Cobaea Scandens can grow up to 20 feet in length.Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Cobaea Scandens?
A: Common pests include aphids and whiteflies, while common diseases include powdery mildew and root rot.
Related Plants
- Cobaea Pringlei
- Cobaea Penstemonoides
- Cobaea Scandens Alba
- Cobaea Scandens Variegata
References
- “Cobaea Scandens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c509.
- “Cup and Saucer Vine – Cobaea Scandens.” Gardening Know How. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/cup-and-saucer-vine/cup-and-saucer-vine.htm.
- “Cobaea Scandens – Cup and Saucer Vine.” Plant Care Today. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/cobaea-scandens.html.
