Renee's Garden - This lush New World native has intricate fleur-de-Lis-shaped leaves that cascade on strong vigorous vines. From midsummer on, the showy foliage is covered with sprays of graceful tubular flowers that start as orange-red buds and open to shade from crimson to soft coral, lemon yellow, and vanilla, all the shades appearing together on each arching blossom. Cover a fence, gate, or trellis with this fine heirloom whose tropical beauty has graced gardens for over 100 years. (Ipomoea lobata)
Characteristics:
Heirloom Selective
Hummingbird favorites
Summer/Fall bloom
Frost tender
Instructions - To start outdoors, in late spring, once the weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 50°F, plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds.
To start early indoors, sow indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready for outdoor planting. Transplant very carefully once nights stay above 50°F. Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart. Do not disturb delicate roots.
To speed germination, soak seeds for no longer than 8 hours in tepid water. Plant immediately after soaking. Erect well-anchored supports at least 8 feet tall at planting time; strong netting, a wood or wire fence, or a sturdy trellis serve well to hold these vigorous climbers that bloom hard from midsummer.
- Plant in April-June
- Full sun
- Plant 1/2" deep
- Space seeds 6" apart
- 7-10 days to germinate
- Mature height: 8-10 feet
Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability.
