Did you brave the cold this January to plant something in your garden? I didn’t. Years ago, I promised myself I wouldn’t sow seeds in January, as it’s not the best time. Most plants only thrive when the days grow longer, about the time of the spring equinox, which falls on March 20. Before that, I end up with little trays of soil cluttering my windowsills, and that’s not how I like to spend my time in winter.
However, there are a few plants that break this rule. Nicotiana is one, loved for its fragrance in summer, but the real star is Cobaea scandens. This fast-growing climber is a favorite of mine for its beautiful flowers that bloom for months. I was particularly grateful for my past self when I saw the purple blooms in a sycamore tree, three meters high. I had planted the seeds the previous December.
Known as the “cup and saucer plant,” Cobaea scandens produces vibrant flowers in deep purple or sometimes streaked white. The variety Cobaea scandens f. alba can be found at Sissinghurst Castle, adorning the arches in its famous white garden.
Though you can buy Cobaea plants from May, they are easy to grow from seed. They are also half-hardy, so you can plant the seedlings early before your garden is in full bloom, or wait until the frost risk passes in late April or May, depending on your location. Soaking the seeds in water can speed up germination, which can take up to a month.
Despite their potential to grow as tall as four meters, Cobaea scandens is also a great choice for containers. It can climb up a trellis or wigwam, or be planted in window boxes for a beautiful cascade of purple bell-like flowers. If you want to cut them for a vase, sear the stems in boiling water, and they will last longer.
If you’re eager to start your garden early this year, consider adding the versatile and fast-growing cup and saucer plant to your collection.
