Yellow Creeper
vigna luteola
Also known as: ["Yellow-flowered Vigna","Yellow Bean Vine"]
Overview
A trailing or climbing vine with yellow flowers and small pods, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vigna |
| Botanical Name: | Vigna luteola |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but blooms best in sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; provide morning sun and afternoon shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize less frequently in shade; stop before flowering to avoid excessive foliage; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new 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 for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply and mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVigna luteola is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicVigna luteola is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to canine health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicVigna luteola is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a species of flowering plant in the legume family and is not known to produce harmful compounds that would cause toxicity upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vigna luteola edible?
A: The pods are sometimes used as a vegetable in some regions, but caution is advised due to potential variability in toxicity.
Q: How fast does Vigna luteola grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing vine, especially in warm climates with adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Vigna luteola require support?
A: Yes, it is a climbing vine and benefits from trellising or support structures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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