This stunning variety of Thunbergia with its bright orange blooms and black eyes will look fantast...This stunning variety of Thunbergia with its bright orange blooms and black eyes will look fantastic growing up an obelisk in a container, or covering a trellis against a sunny fence. Sow February to April into pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a 6mm (1/4 in) layer of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged, germination will usually take 14-21 days. Additionally, a mid-summer sowing will produce winter/spring flowering plants in the cool greenhouse. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost (12in ) apart. Product Specifications: Half Hardy Annual Position: full sun Height: Up to 180cm (71in) Spread: Up to 40cm (16in) Supplied as Thunbergia Alata ‘Superstar orange’ (Black-eyed Susan) 1 packet (12 seeds). Images shown are for guidance only of the expected results from plants upon maturity. Different growing conditions might vary results. Image may be included for illustration of supply but can vary due to seasonality changes (e.g. deciduous plants lose leaves in colder months).
This guide helps gardeners grow the Thompson & Morgan Thunbergia Alata 'Superstar Orange', also known as Black-eyed Susan. It's for anyone looking to add vibrant orange blooms to their garden. The key benefit is the stunning visual display it provides when grown up an obelisk or trellis. A minor consideration is that it is a half-hardy annual, so it needs protection from frost.
All features
Model Part Number
25808
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How much sun does Thunbergia Alata need?
It requires full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
When should I sow the seeds?
Sow seeds from February to April indoors or after the last frost.
How often should I water my Thunbergia?
Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Do I need to fertilize my Thunbergia?
Yes, feed with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage flowering.
How tall does Thunbergia Alata grow?
It can grow up to 180cm (71in) tall.
Is Thunbergia Alata a perennial?
No, it is a half-hardy annual.
How do I care for it during winter?
Since it is a half-hardy annual, protect it from frost. In cooler climates, consider starting seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
How do I transplant the seedlings?
Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into 7.5cm (3 in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatize the plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting outdoors after the last frost.
Troubleshooting
Failure to germinate seeds.
Ensure the seeds are kept at a consistent temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) and the compost is kept moist but not waterlogged. Also, make sure the seeds are not buried too deeply.
Yellowing leaves.
This could be due to overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Ensure the plant is not getting too much direct sunlight if the leaves are scorching.
Lack of flowers.
Ensure the plant is receiving enough sunlight (at least 6 hours per day). Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer and deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Provides a beautiful display of orange flowers.
Versatile in its application, suitable for various garden settings.
Relatively easy to grow from seed.
Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Cons
Requires full sun exposure.
Needs protection from frost.
May require regular watering, especially during dry periods.
Can be susceptible to certain pests if not cared for properly.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Seeds:
Sow seeds from February to April in pots or trays filled with moist seed compost.
Cover the seeds with a 6mm (1/4 in) layer of compost or vermiculite.
Place in a propagator or a warm location, maintaining a constant temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F).
After sowing, avoid excluding light to help with germination.
Keep the compost surface moist but avoid waterlogging; germination typically takes 14-21 days.
Transplanting:
Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into 7.5cm (3 in) pots or trays.
Gradually acclimatize plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting outdoors after the last frost.
Position: Plant in a location that receives full sun.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage flowering.