Last updated on December 21st, 2024 at 05:06 pm
The Coral Vine Plant – (Antigonon leptopus) Is a fast-growing vine that does well in the southwest part of the U.S. The leaves are heart-shaped and fast-growing twigs that can easily climb fences, trellis, and arbors.
No matter where you live, the Coral Vine plant draws in a lively crowd of butterflies, bees, and birds. Its vibrant pink blooms are irresistible to these creatures, offering them a reliable source of nectar. Planting Coral Vine in your garden not only adds beauty but also creates a habitat for these essential pollinators and feathered visitors. Whether you’re in a city or countryside, this plant transforms your space into a bustling hub of natural activity.
During late spring and early fall, you can see these vines blooming throughout the southwest valley region.
Plant them on a full or partial sun wall or fence and they will grow into a gorgeous vine. They will go dormant during the winter seasons. Except for non-freezing zones. A good place is on a south or west-facing wall where there is ample room for it to grow. Not a good idea to plant around other ornamental vines or plants.
Lookup your zone area right here. Your Plant Hardiness zone area. It will grow up to 40 ft. wide so give it plenty of room to grow.
Coral Vine is native to Mexico and thrives in hot dry climates but does better if watered more often. It does tolerate poor soil but does better with well-composted soil.
This vine is an invasive species and I would think twice before planting it around other wanted plants such as roses, geraniums, and other plants that are susceptible to invasive vines. The seeds spread and germinate quickly.
Fertilize lightly during the flowering season usually late summer early fall. A very hardy vine that is not susceptible to diseases or insects. However, sometimes aphids and mealybugs will attack this vine. Follow this link for further information. Insects and diseases on plants.
Coral Vine Plant
It goes by numerous names.
- Miguelito
- San Miguelitos
- Queen’s Wreath
- Mexican Creeper
- The Bee’s Bush
Closeup of Coral Vine Plant
It is a hard vine to find at your local nurseries. Most, nurseries will run out quickly in early spring, best to purchase when and if you find it.
Looking for Vines for the Southwest.
Fast Growing Vines for Fences.
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If you have any questions or enjoyed this post, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Thank you for great article on Queen ‘s Wreath. I have tried to grow one against the west facing side of the house, but it did not make it through the winter. Also tried growing from seed with no success. I live in Las Cruces by the Talavera firehouse. The soil is rock and clay.
I have noticed a wonderful vine on Campo St. and another where the Grand Chinese Buffet used to be near The Pecan Grill by the mall. They seem to do better in El Paso where it is warmer in the winter. I have seen some beautiful ones there, but I have seen none in the area where I live.
I am wondering if you sell Queen’s Wreath and if you have any suggestions for growing one in this situation.
Thank you.
Hello, Jessie. The Talavera area is poor soil! I would recommend using some good organic composted soil in the area where you want to plant the Queen’s Wreath. Make sure to dig at least a foot wider than the size of the container and about the same depth of the container size. Water every day for about 2 weeks then cut back about every other day. Water twice per month during the winter season. Fertilize one week after planting use an analysis of 20-20-20. Do not fertilize during the winter season…typically late November, December, January, and early February. Go back to every other day about 20-30 minutes with a drip system during the spring season. To help the vine thrive I would fertilize once per month the first year. BTW, we do have Coral Vine available at our Greenhouse stores. I hope this helped.
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I bought San Miguelitos seeds but they did not grow. :(. I’m originally from El Paso and love these. I want to grow in the Fort Worth area. You’re advice would greatly be appreciated.
In reply to Patricia.
Hello, Patricia. Starting seeds are somewhat difficult. Here are a few pointers that may help with getting your Miguelito seeds to germinate.
Use a small file and scratch a small line across your seed.
Soak your seeds in a half water and half peroxide solution. Use a small glass and soak about 10-24 hrs. Make sure your container is clean.
Once you see your plant break through the seed shell it’s time to place in the soil.
Use good loose soil. Sphagnum Peat Moss will work. Or ask for seed starting soil at your nearest nursery store.
Place seeds about 1 inch into the soil. Water daily with a gentle spray. Do not use fertilizer until your plant is at least 3-4 inches tall.
Hope this will help.
Regards Paul
Thank you for the peroxide starting germination tip! Any tips on how to make it survive the winter?