Heirloom Mina Lobata
Exotic Love Vine
(Mina lobata)
This lush New World native has intricate fleur-de-lis shaped leaves that cascade on strong vigorous vines. From midsummer on, the showy foliage is covered with sprays of graceful tubular flowers that start as orange-red buds and open to shades from crimson to soft coral, lemon yellow and vanilla, all the shades appearing together on each arching blossom. Cover a fence, gate or trellis with this fine heirloom whose tropical beauty has graced gardens for over 100 years.
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender
TO START OUTDOORS
In late spring, once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 50°F (10°C), plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 5 to 6 weeks before last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready for outdoor planting. Transplant very carefully once nights stay above 50°F (10°C). Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart. Do not disturb delicate roots.
GROWING NOTES
To speed germination, soak seeds for no longer than 8 hours in tepid water. Plant immediately after soaking. Erect well-anchored supports at least 8 feet tall at planting time; strong netting, a wood or wire fence or a sturdy trellis serve well to hold these vigorous climbers that bloom hard from midsummer.
Plant In |
Sun/Shade |
Planting Depth |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
April – June
|
Full sun
|
1/2 inch
|
6 inches
|
7 – 10 days
|
8 – 10 feet
|
Plant In |
Sun/Shade |
Planting Depth |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
April – June
|
Full sun
|
1/2 inch
|
6 inches
|
7 – 10 days
|
8 – 10 feet
|
Plant In
April – June
|
Sun/Shade
Full sun
|
Planting Depth
1/2 inch
|
Space Seeds
6 inches
|
Days to Germinate
7 – 10 days
|
Mature Height
8 – 10 feet
|