Potato Vine (Solanum laxum)
No this vine does not produce edible potatoes, but it does produce continuous flushes of light purple flowers. These flowers grow in clusters making it stand out in a crowd of plants. The potato vine will grow 15-20 feet and can take partial shade to full sun. Another fantastic attribute, aside from the fact that it blooms from spring to fall, is that it is actually a perennial here in the piedmont region.

Thunbergia Vine (Thunbergia grandiflora)
This vine has a stunning five-lobed flower that is light violet in color. Blooming from early summer to fall, it reaches 15-20 feet in length and grows best in partial shade to sun. Because of it’s vigorous growth, it is a perfect plant for covering an arbor or even a gazebo.

Mandevilla
This vine is one of the most hardy, stunning vines around! It features 2”-4” trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white or red. This quick-growing vine is treated as an annual in the greater Raleigh-area and loves full sun and the heat! Once it is established, it is really rather drought tolerant. Truly a stunning addition to any yard! Blooms early spring until first frost. Attracts hummingbirds.

Dipladenia
Cousin to the mandevilla, this plant has showy pink, trumpet-shaped flowers with a yellow throat against dark green smooth leaves (which are smaller than the mandevilla). Works better in a container or hanging basket, rather than a trellis, as it has a more compact growth habit (3’ - 4’ H). Much like the mandevilla, this full sun plant is drought tolerant once established. Attracts hummingbirds.

These annual vines can make any garden project feel more complete and certainly adds a finished look to any trellis or arbor. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call or come by and see us. We are always happy to help!

Happy Gardening,
Brian Jennings
Fairview Greenhouses & Garden Center