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I mentioned earlier in another post that I would be glad to hang my clothes on a tree if these Caracalla vines completely covered my clothes line. Well, that time is just a few days away. Once these things start blooming, they go wild!
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I have never seen one. Do they only grow in warmer climates?
Judy,
They are tropical and native to Central and South America. They are perennial.
They are grown as an annual in North America because frost will kill them. I think they can be cut back and brought in for the winter. I am researching that, now.
They are a member of the pea/bean family. From seed, the vines grow very rapidly to over 25 ft. But with all that lush growth, they wont bloom here til late August/early September. The stems root easily. I am rooting some now. I'm going to try to keep them over winter and see if they will bloom earlier.
They were grown in the States, long ago. Thomas Jefferson said they were the most beautiful pea in the world.
The common name for these is "Shell Vine", & they can in fact be grown in pots & wintered inside.
Thank you, Ivey. I had read they could be overwintered inside. Whether I will be able to, is another matter. They thrive in strong, full sun. Whether I will be able to provide enough light for them is questionable.
If they have the ability to go into a semi dormant state, they wouldn't need as much light. I guess I'll learn through trial and error. If my cuttings don't survive the Winter, and if the vine doesn't make seed, this will be my last year to grow them. I will not pay 12 dollars for 5 seed, again.
The ants are working the blooms like crazy. I may yet get seed.
With roots extending to over 5 feet, I would suggest a very large pot.
I have to say, growing this vine has been a pure pleasure. From late summer on, working in my back yard has been so nice. The slightest breeze brings me this flower's fragrance. It is reminiscent of Elizabeth Arden's 'Bluegrass'.
The only real disappointment I've had with these beautiful flowers is that they begin to bloom rather late in the season. The ones I brought inside for the winter are doing nicely.
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