About

Asteranthera ovata is a perennial vine that adheres to surfaces as it grows, producing numerous branches. It features small, oval leaves arranged in opposite pairs, each with a bristly texture. The flowers are tubular, measuring approximately 6 cm in length, and open into four lobes, showcasing a bright red hue and a soft, hairy surface.

About the genus

Asteranthera consists of climbing or trailing shrubs characterized by their evergreen, spiky foliage and vivid blossoms.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Partial shade
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Conservatory Greenhouse, Climber Wall Shrub
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden
Native to
Chile to Argentina

Care notes

Cultivation
Needs a cool, humid climate, and lime-free, humus-rich, moderately fertile soil or compost. Must be shaded from hot sun and sheltered from cold winds. Suitable for growing up a tree or over logs in woodland, or on a shaded wall, where it will tolerate a few degrees of frost, otherwise grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed surface sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn, or root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free