PlantFun
Plant Needs
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, glossy green foliage, 5–15 cm long with pointed tips and smooth margins
- Flower: Trumpet-shaped bright golden-yellow blooms, 7–10 cm wide, emitting a subtle evening fragrance
- Stem: Slender, twining woody stems that wrap tightly around supports for climbing
Care Guide
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during prolonged hot, dry spells
Apply a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks to support flowering. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Banana Peel Tea：Chop 2–3 ripe banana peels and soak in 1 gallon of water for 3 days; strain out solids and dilute the tea 1:2 with water before applying to the soil around the base of the plant- Trim back overgrown or tangled stems in early spring to encourage bushier growth and better flowering
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flower production throughout the growing season
- Remove any damaged, diseased, or yellowing foliage to improve air circulation and prevent pest infestations
- Cut back stems to 30–60 cm in late autumn if growing in a region with cool winters to prepare for dormancy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets: ASPCA does not list this plant as toxic to cats
Humans: Raw tubers contain mild alkaloid compounds; cooked tubers are sometimes consumed in limited tropical regions with minimal risk
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Valued in tropical landscaping for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and fast climbing habit
Usage: Ornamental vine for trellises, arbors, and fences; cooked tubers are occasionally consumed as a starchy food source in parts of Central and South America
