Mexican Twist

(Lophospermum erubescens)

Mexican Twist (Lophospermum erubescens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lophospermum erubescens, commonly known as Mexican Twist, is a perennial vine that can be evergreen or deciduous depending on the climate. It is native to the mountainous regions of Mexico, where it thrives in forested areas, often climbing on other vegetation. This vine can grow to 2 meters (7 feet) or more, with a twining habit that makes it ideal for trellises and arbors. The plant is adorned with heart-shaped leaves and produces showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically pink and purple, blooming profusely from spring to fall. The ’Bridal Bouquet’ cultivar is notable for its pure white flowers.

Mexican Twist is valued for its long flowering season and the vibrant color it adds to gardens. It is suitable for growing in containers, on patios, and as a houseplant in colder regions. While it can be grown outdoors in frost-free areas, in regions with frost, it requires protection or can be treated as an annual. It is relatively easy to grow, provided it has support for climbing. Propagation is straightforward by seed or cuttings. Mexican Twist requires full sun for optimal blooming but can tolerate partial shade. It prefers medium amounts of water and well-drained soil.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine, Herb
  • Height: 7-10 feet
  • Width: 7-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the mountainous regions of Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Creeping Gloxinia

Scientific Names: , Lophospermum erubescens, Asarina erubescens, Maurandya erubescens, Lophospermum scandens, Lophospermum purpusii, Lophospermum turneri, Maurandya purpusii, Maurandya lophospermum, Lophospermum chiapense

GBIF Accepted Name: Lophospermum erubescens D.Don ex Sweet