Clytostoma callistegioides

Clytostoma callistegioides

Sometimes known as the violet trumpet vine or the Argentine trumpet vine, this climbing plant comes into bloom in October in Sydney gardens. Hailing from southern Brazil and Argentina, it has the characteristic flared trumpet flowers of members of the Bignonia family (Bignoniaceae). These are mauve with purple veining, and reminiscent of foxgloves, and they appear in profusion. Foliage is glossy. It will climb to around 3.5 m or more (much more vigorous in tropical areas), using coiled tendrils, and needs the support of a pergola, arch or fence. It seems to do best in full sun, with adequate moisture, especially in its early years, but will also tolerate part or dappled shade.

Clytostoma callistegioides

Clytostoma callistegioides

It seems it may be able to be able to cope with frost, and a reader has reported it grew well in his Canberra garden. However, it may defoliate at very low temperatures. It is best to prune it back after flowering to keep the growth compact by removing the oldest wood. It can be propagated by cuttings taken in spring; mine resulted from a small piece snapped from a vine spotted during a stroll around the neighbourhood some years ago!