
Heirloom Flowering Vines
Cathedral Bells
This beautiful climber is also called “Cup and Saucer Vine” because the blossoms look for all the world like slende...
This beautiful climber is also called “Cup and Saucer Vine” because the blossoms look for all the world like slender teacups sitting on dainty saucer-like green calyxes. The spectacular 2-inch bells with softly curving rims turn from creamy pale green to a striking rose-violet. Beginning midsummer, this vigorous flowering vine blooms for weeks when most other vines are on the wane. The beautiful blossoms are beacons for hummingbirds. Also a favorite of Victorian era gardeners.
TENDER PERENNIAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Usually grown as annual
FOR BEST RESULTS
Sow seed indoors in a warm place 6 to 8 weeks before night temperatures are reliably in the 50° range. Plant 2 seeds per individual 4 inch pot of seed starting mix. Keep at 70° to 80° and keep moist but not soggy while awaiting germination within 15 to 21 days. Thin to strongest seedling per pot. Provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. When weather has warmed evenly, acclimate to outdoor conditions and carefully transplant 1 foot apart and 3 inches from supports.
TO START OUTDOORS
Seed can be sown outdoors once nights are reliably above 50° but only in areas with a long warm season. Plant in full sun 4 to 6 inches apart, 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches from supports. Firm soil well over seeds. When seedlings are well established, thin to stand 1 foot apart, so these vigorous vines have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
Cathedral Bells thrive in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. The rapidly climbing vines need well-anchored supports at least 10 feet tall; use a sturdy trellis or arbor, or a wood or wire fence. Stems cling by branched tendrils that grow on the end of each leaf stalk.
Cold Winters |
Mild Winters |
Sun/Shade |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
May - June
|
April - May
|
Full sun
|
6 inches apart
1/2 inch deep |
15 - 21 days
|
10 - 20 feet
|
Cold Winters |
Mild Winters |
Sun/Shade |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
May - June
|
April - May
|
Full sun
|
6 inches apart
1/2 inch deep |
15 - 21 days
|
10 - 20 feet
|
Cold Winters
May - June
|
Mild Winters
April - May
|
Sun/Shade
Full sun
|
Space Seeds
6 inches apart
1/2 inch deep |
Days to Germinate
15 - 21 days
|
Mature Height
10 - 20 feet
|