Cup and Saucer Vine ‘Purple’
Cobaea scandens
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
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
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
Sources
Winter Mini Course: Seed-Starting 101
Learn how to start flowers from seed in this three-part video series
In our upcoming Winter Mini Course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to successfully start flowers from seed, including all of the necessary supplies, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and how to create a simple indoor seed-starting area.
