Climbing seedlings, black eyes of Sultana

Scientific name: Thunbergia alata Common names: Le sourire de Zanzibar - Black-eyed Susan vine Plant family: Acanthaceae Genus: Thunbergia Most plants of this genus are herbaceous plants or climbing shrubs, all belonging to the tropical African region. Climbing Susan is a perennial herbaceous plant (especially in its native habitat). Its branches extend between two and four meters. It is often classified as an invasive plant due to its rapid growth and spread. Its leaves are evergreen, dense, soft, heart-shaped, with a pointed tip, topped with a light wild hue. The flowers appear at the beginning of spring, with five petals in bright cheerful colors such as red, yellow, and orange, and rarely white. At the center, there is a dark purple almost black heart, which led to the nickname "Black-eyed Susan," referring to a fictional character in some old English poems and verses. The flowering period extends until late autumn, making it one of the most beautiful flowering climbers with attractive colors. Climbing Susan needs bright direct or indirect light, but direct light helps increase flowering density. High temperatures exceeding forty degrees Celsius can cause some deterioration, but the plant quickly recovers when temperatures decrease in the autumn season. Conversely, temperatures below minus ten degrees can cause near-complete growth stoppage. To renew activity, it is recommended to prune it annually to stimulate the production of new leaves and branches. Regarding its water needs, they are moderate; it is advised not to let the soil dry out and to ensure moisture, especially during intense heat.