Coral Vine
(Antigonon leptopus)
Coral Vine (Antigonon leptopus)
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Forest and Kim Starr
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Forest and Kim Starr
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Forest and Kim Starr | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Starr Environmental | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Antigonon leptopus, commonly known as Coral Vine, is an evergreen perennial vine native to the tropical forests, scrublands, and thickets of Central America and Mexico. This vigorous climber uses tendrils to ascend and can reach lengths exceeding 7 meters. Its heart-shaped leaves and dense clusters of showy pink or white flowers, which bloom from spring to autumn, make it a popular ornamental plant. The flowers are particularly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Coral Vine forms underground tubers and large rootstocks, enabling it to survive adverse conditions. It is a prolific seed producer, with seeds that can float on water, aiding in their dispersal. The fruit and seeds are also spread by a variety of animals, including pigs, raccoons, and birds.
Coral Vine is valued for its rapid growth and vibrant floral displays, making it an excellent choice for covering trellises, arbors, and fences. It is also used to restore vegetation in degraded areas due to its robust root system. However, its ability to resprout from tubers can make it difficult to remove once established. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun, requires medium amounts of water, and prefers soils with medium drainage. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it performs best in well-drained, fertile soils. Gardeners should be cautious, as Antigonon leptopus is potentially invasive in some regions. It is recommended to check local regulations before planting to prevent ecological disruptions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Coral Vine is valued for its rapid growth and vibrant floral displays, making it an excellent choice for covering trellises, arbors, and fences. It is also used to restore vegetation in degraded areas due to its robust root system. However, its ability to resprout from tubers can make it difficult to remove once established. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun, requires medium amounts of water, and prefers soils with medium drainage. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it performs best in well-drained, fertile soils. Gardeners should be cautious, as Antigonon leptopus is potentially invasive in some regions. It is recommended to check local regulations before planting to prevent ecological disruptions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Vine
- Height: 8-10 feet
- Width: 3-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Pink
- Flowering Season: Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Tropical forests, scrublands, and thickets in Central America and Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Mexican Coral Vine, Mexican Creeper, Confederate Vine, Queen’s Jewels, Queen’s Wreath, Chain-Of-Love, Coralvine, Mountain-Rose Coralvine, Bee Bush, Confederate-Vine
Scientific Names: , Antigonon leptopus, Antigonon cinerascens, Antigonon cordatum, Antigonon platypus, Corculum leptopus, Polygonum cirrhosum, Antigonon amabie, Corculum leptopus var. album,
GBIF Accepted Name: Antigonon leptopus Hook. & Arn.