Antigonon leptopus, coral vine, mexican creeper, queen's wreath, chain of hearts, 20 fresh seeds February 2023
Other common names: Coral creeper, Queen’s wreath, bride's tears, chain-of-love, Confederate vine, coral vine, coralita, hearts on a chain, love-vine, Mexican creeper, Mexican love vine, mountain rose, queen's jewels.
Antigonon leptopus is native to Mexico and parts of Central America, widely naturalized and cultivated as an ornamental in warm, tropical climates around the world, including Mediterranean, Africa, India, Australia, North, Central and South America, West Indies, and numerous islands in the Pacific Ocean
Long-lived Antigonon leptopus is a vigorous, fast-growing, tuberous-rooted, tendril-climbing tropical vine boasting dense trusses of bright coral-pink, sometimes red, or white, flowers. They bloom for months in summer - all year in tropical conditions. The crinkly leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm), are pale green, arrow-shaped, and evergreen in hardiness zones 9-11. Coral Vine loses its leaves during winter in cooler climates, or during the dry season. Often used to advantage growing over other shrubs, it is also a good choice for climbing unsightly walls, fences and garden structures.
May grow up to 2.5-3 m in a single season.
A full sun lover, it is best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. It tolerates poor soil and a wide range of light conditions. Some drought tolerance but appreciates consistent moisture during the growing season. Protect roots with mulch.
Perfect for arbours, trellises, fences or containers.
Generally, pest and disease free.
Cut back in late winter or early spring.
Germination method
Select a location for Antigonon leptopus plant where it will receive partial sun. Loosen the soil slightly. Alternatively, prepare a pot with a well-draining soil mix if you wish to start the seeds in container.
Water the soil in your chosen location or container so it is moist but not saturated. If the soil becomes easily saturated, add perlite, sand, or organic material to the soil to assist with drainage while allowing the soil itself to stay moist.
Place Antigonon leptopus seeds in the moistened soil so they are barely covered by the soil. Planting the seeds too deep may prevent the coral vine plant from developing.
Keep the soil moist during the germination period, checking it every day and watering if necessary. It takes between 21 and 30 days to germinate and emerge from the soil.
Fertilize Antigonon leptopus weekly during the growing season using a general-purpose fertilizer for flowering plants. Check the soil for moisture every few days; once the plant is established it is more tolerant of dry conditions than during the germination period.
For faster germination put the seeds in a cup with water for 4 days, change water every day regularly. After place them in paper towel soaked with water and put into zip lock bag. Seeds will germinate on 4-5th days. Transfer the seeds into pots.
Control Antigonon leptopus vine's growth by setting up a trellis or other frame for it to climb. Coral vine climbs using tendrils and can grow aggressively to lengths of 10-12 m if given the opportunity.
Before planting, learn if Coral vine is considered an invasive species where you live.