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
Seed-Saving Mini Course
Learn how to save seed from zinnia, dahlia, and celosia
In our upcoming free, three-part video series, you’ll learn everything you need to know to save seeds on a home scale, including how plants are pollinated and isolation techniques to ensure varieties come back true, how to tell when plants are ready to pick and how to harvest the seeds, and how to properly dry, clean, and store seeds long term.
