Inspiring poets with its beauty, this 1800s heirloom can be enjoyed in SO many ways! Hanging baskets, window boxes, use for a screen on a trellis or fence - decorating columns and mailboxes, ground cover - the possibilities are endless! Black Eyed Susan vines will reward you with lush foliage and masses of blooms all summer long in vibrant orange, yellow, and white. The colorful petals will make a striking contrast to the black "eye" of the flower. Attracts Pollinators!
Originally native to areas of southern and eastern Africa, this stunning vine has since naturalized to many other areas of the world. The genus name "Thunbergia" honors Carl Peter Thunberg, an 18th century Swedish botanist who did extensive botanical research and exploration at the Cape of Good Hope. The species name "alatus" means "winged," referring to the shape of the leaves.
~ Sowing ~
*****Soil needs to be warm for seeds to germinate. If you are attempting to start indoors (not impossible but not recommended) you will need to provide bottom heat.*****
Direct sow in late spring, 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is 70°–80°F, planting just below the surface of the soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination.
~Growing ~
Water seedlings occasionally until they become established. Though they prefer rather moist soil, mature plants tolerate some drought. Watering in especially dry weather will increase blooming. This plant attracts bees and butterflies, and makes an excellent choice for covering trellises, fences, and arbors.
Hardiness: Perennial in USDA zones 10-11
Size: 5'–8' long vine; in frost-free areas it may reach 20'.
Variety Info: 1"–1½" wide, vibrant white, yellow, and orange flowers, some with and some without a contrasting black "eye".
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Period: Summer to frost
Thunbergia alata
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
