Cypress Vine

A nostalgic favorite in the South, cypress vine is prized for its red, white, or pink trumpet-shape blossoms (adored by hummingbirds) and feathery, finely cut foliage. Like its close relative, morning glory, this annual vine is easy to grow and blooms for months in the heat of summer. Also like morning glory, this plant's flowers close up in the afternoon. Use this vine (also known as cardinal climber or star glory) for cloaking a pergola or scrambling up an arbor. Plant it at the base of a trellis set against a barren wall and bring the once-lackluster wall to life. Note: All parts of this plant, especially the seeds, are poisonous.

Cypress Vine Care Must-Knows

Cypress vine thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. A tropical vine, it grows best where summers are long and hot. This plant regularly grows 6 to 10 feet tall and occasionally stretches to 20 feet or more. A well-anchored fence, strong netting, or a trellis placed at planting time will help support the growth of these delicate-looking but vigorous vines.

Cypress vine is easy to start outdoors directly in the garden, but wait until temperatures are regularly above 50 degrees Fahrenheit both day and night. Plant seeds ½ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in a sunny location in ordinary garden soil. Firm soil over the seeds and keep them evenly moist until they germinate. Seedlings are delicate so tend them carefully. Cypress vine is slow to start growing but will climb quickly once it is established.

Sow seeds indoors 4 to 5 weeks before the last expected frost and enjoy cypress vine blossoms earlier than if you had waited to plant seeds directly in the garden. Sow seeds in individual pots of seed-starting mix, covering them with ½ inch of soilless mix. Keep seeds warm and moist as they germinate. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Plant the seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart in the garden when temperatures are regularly above 50 degrees Fahrenheit both day and night.

Garden Plans for Cypress Vine