Solandra maxima is also known as the Cup of Gold Vine and Golden Chalice Vine. A vine that is grown for its large golden yellow flowers which appear from late winter through to summer.
Although Solandra maxima is originally from Central and South America, it does grow well in cooler climates. In warmer areas it will be evergreen, in cooler climates it will be deciduous, or partly deciduous. In Australia it will grow well at least as far south as Melbourne.
Beside the wonderful flowers the glossy foliage is an added attraction and also a wonder foil for the yellow flowers.
How to Grow Solandra maxima ( Basic Care)
The flowers and foliage of this vine are poisonous, so use gloves when handling.
- Choose a postion where the vine can grow into the sun and the root system is in shade.
- You will also need to provide some support, consider growing along a fence where it will easily cover 8m.
- Best grown in a humus rich soil with some moisture.
- Apply some general purpose fertilizer in spring.
- Water deeply in dry summers or long dry periods.
- Mulch around the root system to maintain moisture.
This is a large evergreen woody climber in warmer climates. Deciduous and smaller growing in cooler areas. And as one of the larger climbing plants it will need support, so a trellis or similar.
Although this is a large plant, it is easily pruned to keep it shape and at the right size for smaller gardens.
Pruning
As it flowers on new growth, Solandra maxima is an easy plant to prune without doing much damage. You can simply prune to shape each year after flowering. Or if the plant becomes to untidy, you can prune back hard in early winter.
Summary Description and Information
- Botanical Name : Solandra Maxima
- Common Names : Golden Chalice Vine, Cup of Gold Vine, Honolulu Lily.
- Family : Solanaceae
- Origins : Central to South America
- Position : Full sun to afternoon shade
- Soil : Humus rich moist.
- Height : Can reach 6 – 8 metres.
- Spread : As for height.
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Flowers : Golden yellow ribbed with brown to red.
- Flowering Time : Spring to Summer
- Foliage : Deep green
- Frost tolerant : No
- Drought tolerant : No
- Toxic to Dogs and Cats : Yes
Solandra Varieties
- Solandra maxima variegata
Solandra maxima is available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
