Bignonia

Family. Bignoniaceae.

Origin: Southeastern United States. 

Description. Bignonia is a fast-growing woody liana that climbs a support with the help of tendrils. It has slightly pubescent stems. The leaves are opposite, compound, each consisting of a pair of lanceolate or oval dark green leaflets 7-12 cm long, 2-7 cm wide and a long thin tendril between them. The tendrils end in adhesive discs that are easily attached to walls. The liana remains evergreen in warm conditions, but acquires a red-violet hue in the fall and sheds its leaves in cold areas. 

Axillary inflorescences contain 2-5 fragrant, funnel-shaped, orange-red showy flowers (up to 5 cm in diameter), appearing in spring. Then greenish pods up to 17 cm long are formed, ripening in late summer. Some species have white and dark purple flowers. Tubers up to 10 cm in diameter.

Height.  Up to 20 m.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In winter, keep the flower in a cool place; in summer, the temperature should be 20-25°C.

Lighting

Bignonia is placed in a light or sunny, ventilated place, with partial shade from direct sunlight. Lighting is very important for abundant flowering.

Care

Trim stems after flowering if necessary. 

Substrate

It grows in fairly light, moderately moist, well-drained soil; there are no special requirements for pH.

Feeding

Feed weekly only during the period of active growth, loves organic matter.

Purpose

The bush is grown primarily for its beautiful flowers and ability to quickly twine around a support.

Flowering time

From May to June, only adult plants bloom. 

Air humidity

Spray periodically.

Soil moisture

During the growing season, water generously. Reduce watering in winter. The plant is quite drought-resistant.

Transplantation

As it grows or if there is a need to change the substrate, every 2-3 years. 

Reproduction

Propagated by cuttings or seeds.

Pests and diseases

Of the harmful insects, the main danger is represented by aphids.