| I have a large arbor that I want to cover with a vine that grows large pretty flowers. Something similar to a trumpet creeper. But I need a truly deciduos vine that loses all its foliage in the winter. Any suggestions? |
| Aristolochia californica Here are a few plants for you to consider: California Pipevine Extremely showy deciduous vine with striking pink and green flowers January through April. The obligate host plant of the California pipe vine swallowtail butterfly. Likes to clamber through shrubs or grow in thickets by rivers and creeks. Akebia quinata - Chocolate Vine A fast growing, woody,semi-deciduous (in mild winter regions) vine that can grow up to 30 feet, but usually less. Clusters of small, fragrant purplish-brown flowers appear in late winter, followed by an edible fruit. Grows in sun or part shade, but should have a semi-rich, well-draining soil and even moisture. Hardy to about 15 degrees F. Ampelopsis brevipedunculata - Turquoise-Berry Vine, PorcelainVine This vigorous, deciduous climber will twine, with the aid of tendrils, 15 ft or more. It has grape-like, lobed leaves, small greenish flowers in summer, and in fall bunches of berries like miniature grapes that ripen from pale green to turquoise, bright blue and violet. Plant in full sun and irrigate occasionally. Hardy to <15 F. Canarina canariensis - Canary Bellflower A curious plant in the Bellflower family that comes from shady ravines in laurel forests on several islands within the Canary Island chain where it is known as Bicacaro. It is a deciduous small perennial vine to 3-5 feet tall with a large tuberous rootstock. In September, after a summer dormancy, grayish purple hollow shoots emerge bearing pale blue-green 3 inch long shallowly lobed leaves with serrated margins. In December through April appear the solitary 2 wide by 3 inch long pendulous 6 parted waxy flowers that are a pale salmon color to brick red with dark red veins. The flowers are followed by a walnut sized dark orange to reddish-black berry. This berry is listed as edible though we have never tried it! Plant in a full or part sun along coast or part sun and light shade inland in a well drained soil. Water occasionally while in active growth and do not allow plant to go completely dry when dormant. Hardy to 25 ? F. Hope one of these vines is just right for your garden. |
