Black-eyed Susan vine
Thunbergia alata · Acanthaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around black-eyed susan vine and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Black-eyed Susan vine
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Type
- Annual or perennial climbing plant depending on climate
- Flowering
- June to October, yellow-orange flowers with black center
- Adult size
- 1.5 to 3 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tender, grow as an annual in temperate climates
- Origin
- East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania)
Care
Exposure
Place your Black-eyed Susan vine in full sun or partial shade, ideally against a trellis, climbing frame or stake. It will flower more profusely with at least 6 hours of direct light daily. Protect it from strong winds that can damage its delicate stems.
Watering
Keep the soil moist and well-drained during the growing season. Water regularly without letting the substrate dry out completely, but avoid waterlogging which causes root rot. During hot summer periods, increase watering frequency.
Soil
Use light, fertile and well-draining compost, enriched with quality potting soil. A mix for climbing or indoor plants works perfectly. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer or one slightly higher in potassium every 15 days during flowering (May to September). This will encourage generous and prolonged flowering. Reduce feeding in winter or at the end of the season.
Pruning and training
Guide the stems onto your chosen support as they grow. Pinch out the tips to encourage branching and better flowering. Remove spent flowers to extend flower production.
Pests and diseases
Watch for whiteflies and red spider mites, especially in hot, dry climates. Powdery mildew can affect the foliage in conditions of stagnant humidity. Ensure good air circulation and avoid excessive foliar watering.
Did you know?
Its English name 'Black-eyed Susan vine' inspired the poetic French name 'Suzanne aux yeux noirs'. This plant, native to East Africa, became popular in Victorian Europe and remains an essential classic in botanical gardens and flowered balconies, thanks to its charming flowers and generous growth.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Bear's breechesAcanthus mollis
- Ethiopian acanthusAcanthus sennii
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.