Cobaea scandens

Common name: Cuban climbing plant Scientific name: Cobaea scandens Also known as: Cup vine, Mexican ivy, Cathedral bells The Cuban plant is a climbing plant belonging to the Phlox family and is fast-growing, exceeding 4 meters in height. Its branches are strong despite being thin and flexible. It has dense, oval green leaves, with small hooks on each leaf for attaching to supports. The Cuban flower: Its flowers are bell-shaped, initially green, then turn white, purple, and violet. It blooms from July to the end of October. The seeds of the Cuban flower: The seeds are somewhat large capsules containing small dark brown seeds. Season for germinating the Cuban flower: The Cuban climber is planted in the spring season, and it can also be cultivated year-round in agricultural protected environments, enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, sunlight reaches the plant, or where there is sufficient lighting. Suitable climate and soil for the Cuban flower: The climber needs full sunlight and grows in well-draining sandy or clay soil. It is sensitive to frost and severe drought. It should be watered regularly. Method of cultivating the Cuban flower: It propagates by seeds planted at a depth of 1 cm from the soil surface. It can also be fertilized with organic fertilizer at least once during flowering to accelerate growth and development. Its benefits and uses: It is used for decoration in gardens and homes to beautify arches and balconies. Original habitat of the Cuban flower: Mexico, and it also spreads in many Arab countries.