Blue Bean
Blue Bean, or Thunbergia Grandiflora, is a stunningly beautiful evergreen vine that originates from tropical East Africa. It is a member of the Acanthaceae family and can grow to be anywhere from 6 to 30 feet in length depending on its environment and growth conditions. The plant is a fast-growing climber with dark green cordate-ovate leaves and can yield large blue and white trumpet-shaped flowers with vivid yellow eyes when properly cared for. The vine best grows as a houseplant or can act as a cover for fences, trellises, and walls in your outdoor garden.
Blue Bean will require regular waterings; about once a week should keep it sufficiently hydrated. It’s important to avoid overwatering your plant as too much can lead to root rot. Pro tip: stick your finger into the soil and if it feels dry, that means it’s time to water!
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, meaning it should be placed outside or in an area with plenty of natural light visible throughout the day. If placed indoors, it is essential to introduce a source of mild light to ensure this vine's growth rate is maintained.
Blue Bean is a perfect plant for the chilly winter months as its ideal temperature display ranges from 45 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a maximum of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In Celsius, its temperatures range from 7 to 24 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of 29 degrees Celsius.
As the vine originates from tropical East Africa, it is best to maintain a humidity level that is higher than average. Mist your Blue Bean with a spray bottle as it will help to keep the humidity slightly higher.
This vine prefers a soil that is high in organic matter. A rich sandy loam with good drainage, such as a standard flower potting mix, will work well. Make sure that the soil is consistently moist but not water-logged to ensure that it is properly hydrated.
It is essential to fertilize your Blue Bean during the spring and summer when the plant is growing rapidly. Fertilize with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer, following the directions on the package, and apply this every two or three weeks until the end of summer. If growing outdoors, you should also add a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Common pests to be aware of when it comes to this plant are aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and root-knot nematodes. To get rid of pests, trying using an insecticide or, more naturally, a solution of 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol and 2 ½ cups of water combined in a spray bottle. Spray the plant in the affected areas and try to do this on a weekly basis until the pests are gone.
This species of plant requires repotting mainly due to its fast-growing nature, especially when the seasons change. Repotting is important for optimal growth and health for your plant. Repotting should be done once a year, in early springtime, with enough room for your growing plant to expand.
This species of plant requires pruning to keep it from getting too overgrown. The best time to prune is during the springtime, as that’s when it continuously produces new growth. Pruning involves cutting off the vine’s branches in order to shape the plant’s height and width.
Mulching your Blue Bean is especially important during the summer months when the heat is present. Placing a thin layer of mulch on the top layer of the soil will help conserve soil moisture and reduce weed growth.
Blue Bean can be propagated by cuttings or seed. For cuttings, the best time to take them is in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches in length and the leaves should be removed from the bottom two-thirds of the stem. Place the cuttings in a moist potting mix and keep them in a warm spot until they root. If planting by seed, the best time to sow the seeds is early in the summer season.
It’s important to provide a support system when growing Blue Bean. A wall or trellis is a great option that will allow the vines to climb and spread. However, it’s important to always check up on them and trim the vines regularly to ensure that the trellis is not being weighed down.
Just like any other plant, Blue Bean needs a rest period to recover and maximize its health. A cool, dry, and frosted environment should be established during winter months, with temperatures around 40°F (4°C). Avoid giving too much water during this time as the plant should go into a hibernation mode.
No, Blue Bean is not toxic to pets.
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