Rhodochiton
Bell vine
- Height × spread
- 3m – 3m × 3m – 3m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
The are three species of these climbing herbaceous plants that are sometimes treated as annuals since they are borderline tender. They originate in Mexico. Only one form is commonly encountered and this is Rhodociton atrosanguineus that has a delicate appearance, though it can discreetly reach a staggering height of 6 metres. It has dainty bell flowers that are generally red-purple, but which can be coloured from near black to quite a light rosy pink shade. This is generally too tender to over-winter outside but can often succeed in a container in a greenhouse or conservatory.
- Flower colour
- Purple, Red, Rose
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Fan
- Height
- 3m – 3m
- Spread
- 3m – 3m
- Season of interest
- Spring, Summer
- Evergreen
- Deciduous
- Garden style
- Indoors, Conservatory
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, tolerates part shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Gravelly soil, Loam (normal), Sandy soil
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil, Well drained soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, most are not hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Wall cover
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed with slow release fertiliser
Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water to keep the soil moist
For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.
Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.