Mina Lobata RHS Seeds

 

Mina lobata, also known as Firecracker Vine or Spanish Flag, is an eye-catching perennial vine known for its vibrant, tubular flowers that change colour as they mature, creating a stunning display of red, orange, yellow, and white hues. This dramatic climber is perfect for adding height and a burst of colour to fences, trellises, and pergolas, where it will grow vigorously and flower profusely throughout the summer months.

 

The genus Mina is named after the Brazilian word for "mine," referring to the plant’s native habitat, while lobata derives from the Latin word "lobus," meaning "lobe," which refers to the shape of the plant’s leaves. Mina lobata is prized for its striking flowers, which are borne in dense clusters, creating a cascading, flame-like effect that adds a dramatic touch to any garden. This variety is also highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

 

Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Mina lobata is a reliable and easy-to-grow vine, perfect for gardeners looking to create a bold, colourful vertical feature in their garden. It is well-suited for both novice and experienced gardeners who want to add a unique element to their outdoor space.

 

This vine prefers well-drained soil and full sun, reaching an impressive height of 2 - 3 m. It is ideal for covering fences, walls, and trellises, or for creating a vibrant screen or backdrop in your garden.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 30

 

Sow: February - April (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly acidic pH

Height: 2 - 3 m

Flowering: June - September

Companion Plants: Morning Glory, Sweet Peas, Clematis

Avoid Planting With: Heavy, moisture-loving plants

 

Once established, Mina lobata is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Water regularly during dry periods and feed with a balanced fertiliser to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering season.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from February to April. Lightly press seeds into the surface without covering, as they require light to germinate. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared soil from April to May. Scatter seeds thinly on the soil surface and gently press them down. Keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to a spacing of 30 - 40 cm for healthy growth.

 

With its fiery blooms and rapid growth, Mina lobata is a fantastic choice for adding a vertical splash of colour to any garden. Its vibrant, ever-changing flowers and ability to attract pollinators make it an excellent addition to any garden design.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range