Canary Creeper

(Senecio tamoides)

Canary Creeper (Senecio tamoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Senecio tamoides, commonly known as Canary creeper or false grapevine, is a climbing perennial herb native to forest margins and riverine thickets in southern Africa, from the Eastern Cape to Zimbabwe. It can reach lengths of up to 13 feet (4 meters) and uses its tendrils to climb over other vegetation. The plant features semi-succulent, purplish stems and palmately lobed leaves that are glossy and deep green. Its showy yellow, cinnamon-scented flowers bloom in late autumn through winter, adding color and fragrance to gardens during a season when few other plants are in flower.

Canary creeper is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used to cover trellises, fences, and walls, providing a lush, tropical appearance. It thrives in well-drained soil, prefers full sun to partial shade, and requires moderate watering. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. In regions where it is not invasive, it can be an attractive addition to the garden, but it should be monitored for aggressive growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 6-15 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to forest margins and riverine thickets in southern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Cape Ivy

Scientific Names: , Senecio tamoides,

GBIF Accepted Name: