Rhodochiton atrosanguineum

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost, just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Place on a warm windowsill. Ideal temp. 15-21°C. Germination takes 14-42 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out May-June with 50cm spacing.

Growing

This is a climbing plant and will require a frame on which to grow. Best grown under glass in full light but with protection from hot sun. During growth water freely and fertilise monthly. Keep soil just moist in winter. Pot on in spring. Can be grown outdoors in well-drained soil which is frost free. In frost prone areas can be grown as an annual.

Cultivation

Plants grown under glass may need pruning in late winter. If planted outside will required frost free protection such as horticultural fleece.