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Climber Wall ShrubConservatory GreenhouseSynonym

Thunbergia alata 'African Sunset'

black-eyed Susan 'African Sunset'

A twining climber grown as an annual and reaching up to 2.4m tall with heart-shaped leaves. The flowers borne from summer into early autumn are a range of colours from red through pinks, apricots, pale yellows and creams but all with the characteristic dark brown centre

Synonyms
Thunbergia alata 'Blushing Susie'
Thunbergia alata 'African Sunset'

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Cream Orange Pink Red Yellow Green
Autumn Cream Orange Pink Red Yellow Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Acanthaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Climbing
Genus

Thunbergia can be annuals or perennials, often twining climbers, with simple opposite leaves and trumpet-shaped or salver-shaped flowers borne singly in leaf axils, or in racemes, in summer

Name status

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a well drained soil in full sun with a support for the plant to climb

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Aphids may cause problems

Diseases

May be affected by powdery mildews

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