Cobaea scandens
vine RHS Award

Cup-and-saucer Vine

Cobaea scandens

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

240 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Tender perennial (grown as an annual)

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Cobaea scandens, commonly known as the cup-and-saucer vine, is a vigorous, climbing perennial plant known for its unique bell-shaped flowers and lush green foliage. Distinctive cup-shaped flowers that can reach up to 3 inches in diameter, making it a striking addition to trellises and fences.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid, fragrant flowers add vertical interest and scent to gardens.
Practical UsesProvides natural shade and privacy with its climbing habit.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds 1 inch deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during propagation.
  3. Support with trellises or arbors for climbing growth.
  4. Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
  6. Prune to control size and encourage bushier growth.

Pro Tip

Use a sturdy trellis; Cobaea scandens can grow rapidly and needs support early.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Provide full sun for best flowering
  • Use balanced fertilizer monthly

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter
  • Never allow soil to dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Climbing vine on trellisesVertical accent in garden bordersVanilla-scented hedge

Companion Plants

Sweet peas Morning glories Sunflowers

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cup-and-saucer Vine questions

What zones can Cup-and-saucer Vine grow in?

Cup-and-saucer Vine is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cup-and-saucer Vine deer resistant?

Yes β€” Cup-and-saucer Vine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cup-and-saucer Vine bloom?

Cup-and-saucer Vine typically blooms in summer to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cup-and-saucer Vine need full sun?

Cup-and-saucer Vine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Cup-and-saucer Vine with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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