Description
Form: A shrub that can be trained as a twining vine.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate to rapid.
Mature Size: 7-10' (2-3m) high and wide. If trained as a vine, 25-30' (7.6-9m) long.
Flowers: Orange to orange-red, tubular, 2.5" (6.25cm) long, five flared lobes. No fragrance.
Bloom: All year in temperatures above 30°F (-1.1°C).
Fruit: A narrow capsule with winged seeds.
Leaves: Green, glossy, ovate, saw-toothed edges.
Stems: Flexible when young, becoming woody, no tendrils or thorns. As a vine, the stems climb by twining.
Roots: This plant spreads by rhizomes. It is invasive in warm, rainy regions, and even dry, mild climates when watered excessively.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, mostly in winter when few other plants are blooming.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: South Africa.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11. The leaves and branches die back at 25°F (-3.9°C).
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Water frequency must be increased in high temperatures.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. It does best against south or west-facing walls. More sun means more blossoms.
Soil: Well draining, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline).
Water once established: Once or twice a month in part shade. Weekly in full sun during the hottest parts of the year.
Mulch: Cover the root zone with organic mulch before the first predicted frost.
Prune: After the last frost, remove winter damage. Periodic pruning helps to keep it within bounds and improves stem and leaf density.
Litter: Low except for pruning.
Propagation: Division of rootball, cuttings, layering.
Uses: An ornamental vine or shrub. It can be draped over a fence to create a hedge.

Comments
Cape Honeysuckle is a member of the Trumpet Creeper family (Bignoniaceae). Its scientific synonym is Tecoma capensis. It is not a true honeysuckle, which are members of the Honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae).

---

Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.