About
Hardenbergia violacea, the vine lilac or false sarsaparilla, is an evergreen twining climber with stems to 2 m and ovate, dark-green leaves to 12 cm. From late winter onwards, pendent racemes of small, pea-like, purple (occasionally pink or white) flowers to 10 mm across are produced in great profusion. An ornamental and rewarding climber for a sunny, sheltered, frost-free wall or conservatory.
About the genus
Hardenbergia are vigorous, evergreen, twining climbers from Australia producing simple or trifoliate leaves and dense racemes or panicles of small, pea-like flowers, mainly in purple, pink or white. Grown on sunny, sheltered walls and fences in mild gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Native toAustralia
Care notes
CultivationCan be grown outdoors in moist, fertile, acidic soil. Under glass or in containers grow in a mix of equal parts peat-free, loam-based potting compost, sharp sand and leaf mould in full light with shade from hot sun. Provide medium to low humidity and when in growth water moderately whilst applying a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist in winter and provide support
PruningPruning group 11, after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by seed at 20°C in spring and soak for 24 hours to aid germination. Take softwood cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, glasshouse whitefly and slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free