SEMI-DECIDUOUS
Thunbergia alata
FULL SUN
SEMI-SHADE
SEMI FROST HARDY
MEDIUM WATER REQUIREMENTS
FAST GROWER
ATTRACTS BIRDS
ATTRACTS INSECTS
FLOWER COLOUR:
AVERAGE SIZE:
3m x 1m
FLOWERING TIME:
J F M A M J J A S O N D
FRUITING TIME:
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Thunbergia alata
DESCRIPTION
This is a fast-growing creeper with small, slightly hairy, heart-shaped leaves. It bears masses of flowers which are orange-yellow trumpet-shaped with a black throat. The plant frequently dies down during winter but rapidly grows out again in spring.
There are creamy-white flowered forms available as well.
NATURAL HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION
Forest margins.WILDLIFE & ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS
Thunbergia alata is a host plant to two moth species as well as the Eyed Pansy butterfly.The flowers attract bees.
WATER REQUIREMENTS
Water regularly in summer.MAINTENANCE
Mulch well and water regularly in summer. Prune plant back if damaged by frost – it will recover in spring.LANDSCAPING USES
Allow the plant to climb up trees to provide additional screening.Mass plant it on a stream bank to form an attractive groundcover.
Plant in a large container on a sunny patio – remember to use a trellis to support it.
The plant can be used to hide ugly construction work or to cover a dead tree.
4 responses
Hi Elaine
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
We’re not familiar with nurseries in your area, but try:
– Callidendron Indigenous Nursery
– Greener Tidings
– Retsini Nursery
Flourish!
Glenice
Hi, I am from Polokwane in Limpopo. Plse advise me at which nursery can I find this plant.
Hi Graham
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
Many nurseries don’t have them on display or for sale in winter as they tend to die back in the colder months and may not look attractive in their bags.
Perhaps start searching again in spring.
Flourish!
Glenice
Battling to find them ?