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Thunbergia alata

These vines from tropical Africa are tender perennials that can be treated as annuals since they flower abundantly the first year. Black-eyed Susan vines are low, twining climbers; they seldom grow more than 6 feet high. They bear arrowhead-shaped leaves. Flowers are generally between 1 and 2 inches across; each stands separately. Most, but not all, have a black center and five clearly defined petals of white, buff, yellow, or orange. The orange clock vine bears somewhat larger blossoms in a glowing orange.      These vines are excellent for window boxes, hanging baskets, and ground cover. They can be trained to a low trellis, wall, or fence. They will grow in light shade as well as full sun and require fertile, moist soil.      Start seeds indoors four to six weeks before the last frost is due. Seeds take two to three weeks to sprout and grow very slowly as young seedlings. Set seedlings outdoors when you can be sure night temperatures will not drop below 50 degrees F; a slight frost will kill even mature plants. Plant seedlings about 3 inches away from the supports they will be climbing. Since Thunbergia vines climb by twining, strings or netting make suitable trellises.

		6/18/01. Black-eyed Susan vines seedlings given to me by a neighbor.
		6/27/01. Potted up in a container with a trellis.
		7/12/01. Growing well.
		7/21/01. First bloom.
		7/27/01. More blooms.
		8/8/01. Up, up, and away!
		4/17/02. Saved seeds in the same container from last year. Going to see how this works.
		5/2/02. Finally up.
		8/3/02. Climbing well with lots of blooms.

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Site launched January 1, 2000. Site updated September 1, 2007.

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