Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates full shade, but best flower production occurs in sun. Prune after flowering if needed. Above ground stems are not reliably winter hardy throughout USDA Zone 5 where they may die to the ground in severe winters (roots are usually hardy therein and will sprout new growth the following spring). In St, Louis, it is best to plant this vine in a protected location and apply a winter mulch. Established plants may send up root suckers which should be removed if spread is not desired.
‘Atrosanguinea’ is a cross-vine cultivar that is noted for its dark purplish-red flowers (flowers of the species are orange-red). In full bloom, the flowering can be spectacular. This is a vigorous, woody vine that climbs by branched tendrils with adhesive disks. It is grown primarily for its attractive flowers and its ability to rapidly cover structures with attractive foliage. Species plants are native to southeastern Missouri where they grow 35-50’. In cultivation, ‘Atrosanguinea’ will grow much shorter. Opposite, compound leaves are bifoliate. Each leaf consists of a pair of lanceolate to oblong dark green leaflets (to 6” long) and a branched tendril between them. Tendril branches terminate in adhesive disks that easily attach to walls. Foliage remains evergreen in the South, but turns reddish-purple in fall with subsequent leaf drop in the colder winter areas of its range. Axillary clusters (2-5 flowered cymes) of fragrant, trumpet-shaped, dark purplish-red flowers (to 2” long) appear in spring. Flowers are followed by greenish, pod-like seed capsules (to 7” long) which mature in late summer and persist into fall. A cross section of stem reveals a marking resembling the Greek cross, hence the common name. Genus name honors Abbe Jean Paul Bignon, librarian in the court of Louis XV. This vine is in the same family as and closely related to Campsis radicans which is commonly known as trumpet vine.
No serious insect or disease problems.
A vigorous, fast-growing cover for fences, arbors, walls, pillars, large trellises and other structures. Also may be grown along the ground.
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4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110(314) 577-5100 hours and admission
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