Cup-and-Saucer Plant
cobaea scandens
Also known as: ["Elephant Bean Vine","Kite Flower"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with large, bell-shaped flowers that transition from green to purplish-blue as they mature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Cobaea |
| Botanical Name: | Cobaea scandens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a sheltered garden or conservatory
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning annually or biannually.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid excessive cutting during flowe
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, and reduce watering in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula if stems grow excessively without flowers.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings, typically taken from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bag, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle air circulation to prevent mold; transplant once roots are 1–2 inches long.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems; focus on shaping during active growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants to support vigorous growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain fully to prevent root rot; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or dormant periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a cactus/succulent mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth; cold stress may cause leaf drop, while heat stress can lead to leaf scorch or browning.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, weaken the plant, and may cause root damage or leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may also lead to reduced flowering or bud drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCobaea scandens is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known substances that are harmful to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCobaea scandens is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCobaea scandens, commonly known as Cup and Saucer Plant, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Cobaea scandens grow?
A: It can grow up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall with proper support.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it requires a very large container and strong support due to its vigorous growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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