Cup-and-Saucer Vine (Cobaea scandens)

Cup-and-Saucer Vine

Cobaea scandens

It twines upward with cup-and-saucer blooms, a whimsical vertical accent. Deciduous flowering vine; common name: Cup-and-Saucer Vine.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot climates
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; can tolerate light frosts but will die back to roots in temperatures below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound pinnate leaves with tendrils at leaf tips for climbing; oval, smooth-margined leaflets
  • Flower: Bell-shaped blooms maturing from green to purple or white, with a distinct saucer-like calyx
  • Stem: Slender, twining green stems that attach to supports via leaf-tip tendrils
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn to prepare the vine for dormancy

Banana peel tea:Chop banana peels, soak in water for 3 days, strain, and dilute 1:10 with water for root drenching to promote bloom production
Pruning
  • Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Trim overgrown vines to maintain desired shape and prevent overcrowding
  • Remove spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
  • Cut back to ground level in cold climates after the first frost
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes ambition and upward growth; a popular cottage garden climbing vine

Usage: Ornamental vine for trellises, arbors, fences, and vertical garden displays