We usually think of vines as most useful for house walls and arbors, yet they will sprawl along the ground and are particularly useful for spreading over terraces. They may eliminate grass-cutting of terrace slopes or soften the sharp lines of the terrace. On either side of the terrace steps, they may be a welcome … Read more
In the hierarchy of vines, large-flowered hybrid clematis rank close to the top. Their startling flowers, some measuring 10” inches across, in red, pink, blue, purple, or white, bring rave notices. Trained on a wall, a doorway trellis, a fence, a lamppost, in the perennial garden, or even in a large tub, they make a … Read more
The Stephanotis (steh-fuh-NO-tuhs) plant is a woody, climbing vine. Its shiny, leathery, dark leaves grow evergreen, and it can produce fragrant white clusters of flowers throughout the summer. The name “Stephanotis” is derived from the Greek words Stephanos, which means a crown, and Otis, which means ear. The term refers to the trumpet-like flowers that … Read more
The passion vines are tropical gems at home in warmer climates, but also to be enjoyed the year-round ‘in the North where the winter temperature reaches 20° degrees Fahrenheit below zero and even lower. We propagate a succession of plants. Plants Grow in Greenhouse Gardens The new plants grew through the winter indoors in window … Read more
After the summer perennial show is over, when even the sturdy annuals have lost their freshness, the quiet beauty of berried shrubs and vines begins to stand out in the garden. They make ideal background plantings to show off chrysanthemums and extend the autumn glow into the bleak months. On a few, berries persist throughout … Read more
The cobaea scandens (ko-BEE-uh SKAN-dens) is a perennial vine with purple cup-shaped flowers. The cabaea scandens is a phlox plant in the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to Mexico and has been sighted in other tropical areas in South America. Cobaea scandens is also known as the cup and saucer vine due to the shape … Read more
Dipladenia (dip-la-Dee-nia), a part of the Apocynaceae family, is a flowering plant that thrives in pots, the ground, and hanging baskets and is known for its bushy foliage and trumpet-shaped flowers. Dipladenia is a South American species that thrive in tropical jungles. However, its tropical origin requires temperatures of at least 68° degrees Fahrenheit to … Read more
If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful plant to grow in your home, consider caring for a passiflora caerulea. Also known as the blue passion vine or passion flower, this striking plant is native to the region stretching from Mexico to South America. It features a vibrant array of flowers depending on the species. … Read more
If you think sweet peas are not for you because summers are too hot in your area, here is good news. Heat-resistant, torrid weather varieties are readily available. By mulching them with a 6-inch layer of straw, grass clippings, peat moss, or other material to keep their roots cool and moist, you can cut fragrant … Read more
From a postage-stamp-sized city backyard to the rolling hills of a magnificent country estate, there is hardly a garden or landscape where vines can’t be used to give the scene graceful beauty and vitality. And few other plants serve so many practical purposes as well. Vines have character and individuality. Some are modest and attract … Read more