Rubber vine
Cryptostegia grandiflora
A woody climber or large shrub with glossy, dark green opposite leaves that feature reddish-purple veins and new growth. It produces large, pale purple to pink trumpet-shaped flowers.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Water
- Moderate to low water needs. Drought tolerant once mature; allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
- Growth
- Perennial woody vine or scrambling shrub, capable of climbing high into trees or forming dense thickets up to several meters tall and wide, with a rapid growth rate.
Care instructions
Thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Moderate to low water needs. Drought tolerant once mature; allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
Soil
Adaptable to a wide range of well-draining soils including sandy, loamy, and clay substrates, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 10 to 12. Highly sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures.
Growth habit
Perennial woody vine or scrambling shrub, capable of climbing high into trees or forming dense thickets up to several meters tall and wide, with a rapid growth rate.
Bloom season
Flowers primarily during the warm wet season, producing large, showy, funnel-shaped pale pink to purple blossoms.
Propagation
Propagated easily from stem cuttings or seeds sown in warm, well-draining potting medium during the spring and summer months.
Common pests & issues
Generally resistant to major pests and diseases, though overwatering in poorly draining soils can lead to root rot. Scale insects may occasionally appear.
Similar species
Other tropical woody climbers with opposite leaves, but distinguished by its distinct purple-tinted new growth, prominent colored veins, and large pale pink funnel-shaped flowers.