When we travel, I make sure my family endures as many garden visits as I think I can get away with. They act like I am tedious, but I know they secretly enjoy it.
On this recent trip, I drug them to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden. The con was easier due in part to the existence of a CowLicks Creamery outpost in the garden (we had discovered the joy of their ice cream the night before—I died for the spiced lavender honey flavor and the spumoni).
Wandering around a corner in the garden, I was introduced to Purple Bell Vine (Rhodochiton atrosanguineum). An upended tree’s roots had been left rather than cleared, forming a mini stumpery. The vine was gracefully growing over the whole mess. It was gasp-worthy, and now I want to have a go at growing it in my own garden.
Thankfully it is an annual that is purported to be easily grown from seed. I’ve seen Matt grow it in his garden (though he does have a glass house – I am nevertheless encouraged). It is a vigorous climber capable of reaching heights of 10-12 feet in a single growing season under optimal conditions.
I found seeds at Swallowtail Gardens and I also found small plants at Annies Annuals (who call it a tender perennial).
Have you grown this? Is it worth 3.49$ for 10 seeds (don’t answer, I know the answer)? Yes, it is worth it, even if they only grow half as well as the plant in these pictures.
I am curious about success rates from seed to get a good-sized healthy plant in New England. Will I be able to grow something as stunning as I saw in Mendocino in one season in Massachusetts? Looking forward to hearing from those of you who know a bit more about this plant. – R
It certainly is a beauty. I only wish I had experience with it, but I guess I have to settle for the beauties of Grandpa Otts morning glories which even self seed here on my chilly hill.
Thats lovely, really is a beauty, the contrast with the tree above is great.
Awesome explanation on this topic. I like the way you presented it. It makes me think that I’m going to revive my blog site.
Hello there, I found your article quite helpful as I am growing purple bell vine from seed for the first time and there isn’t much information out there. I am wondering if you had success or any tips for a new grower. Did you pinch it as a seedling? Does it self attach or do you need to clip it to the trellis? Appreciate any information you can pass along! Happy growing!
I haven’t grown from seed – so I can’t answer that question – but it did twine a bit to self-support, but it wasn’t the strongest, so I found myself helping it along just by tucking it into itself and encouraging it to drape and ramble. (I didn’t use clips – but they could be helpful).