Cup and Saucer Vine ‘Purple’

Cobaea scandens

Features

  • Cut-and-come-again
  • Vine

Description

This vigorous climbing vine is a beautiful addition to the garden and the vase. From late summer through the first autumn frost, vines are smothered in dusty-lavender, cup-shaped flowers that transition to grape-purple as they age. Blooms are a wonderful addition to late-season bouquets and also look great displayed en masse or floated in shallow bowls.

Details

Plant type: annual
Height: 10 to 15 ft
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 120 days
Plant spacing: 6 to 12 in
Pinch: not necessary

Seed Sowing & Growing Notes

Start seed indoors in pots 8 to 10 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed. Cup and saucer is very sensitive to cold; wait until the weather has warmed before transplanting. Provide a strong trellis or support for vines to climb.

Harvesting/Vase Life

Harvest individual flowers just as they open. Immediately after harvest, dip the bottom few inches of the stems in boiling water for 7 to 10 seconds, or use Quick Dip, then place into cool water. Individual blossoms can be floated in low bowls or vines can be incorporated into shorter arrangements. Expect a 4 to 5 day vase life.

Details

Description

This vigorous climbing vine is a beautiful addition to the garden and the vase. From late summer through the first autumn frost, vines are smothered in dusty-lavender, cup-shaped flowers that transition to grape-purple as they age. Blooms are a wonderful addition to late-season bouquets and also look great displayed en masse or floated in shallow bowls.

Details

Plant type: annual
Height: 10 to 15 ft
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 120 days
Plant spacing: 6 to 12 in
Pinch: not necessary

Seed Sowing & Growing Notes

Start seed indoors in pots 8 to 10 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed. Cup and saucer is very sensitive to cold; wait until the weather has warmed before transplanting. Provide a strong trellis or support for vines to climb.

Harvesting/Vase Life

Harvest individual flowers just as they open. Immediately after harvest, dip the bottom few inches of the stems in boiling water for 7 to 10 seconds, or use Quick Dip, then place into cool water. Individual blossoms can be floated in low bowls or vines can be incorporated into shorter arrangements. Expect a 4 to 5 day vase life.

Sources

How to Grow

Summer Mini Course

Learn how to grow, harvest & arrange beautiful cut flowers

In our three-part video series, you’ll learn a simple step to double the number of blooms your plants produce, how to cut and care for your flowers for the longest vase life, and how to make mixed bouquets quickly and efficiently.