Overview

Lapageria rosea is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Lapageria, part of the Philesiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Lapageria rosea grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include wall side borders. It is native to Chile and Argentina.

About

A climbing evergreen plant of moderate size, Lapageria rosea features thick, oval-shaped leaves. Its flowers are bell-shaped, drooping, and waxy, displaying a rich deep rose-pink hue, reaching lengths of up to 7.5 cm.

About the genus

Lapageria is a climbing plant that twines as it grows. It features ovate, evergreen leaves and produces large, drooping flowers that are waxy to the touch and shaped like narrow bells during the summer and autumn months.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lapageria

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

Plant details

Lapageria rosea size, habit and characteristics

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

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lapageria rosea

Cultivation
Ideal climber for a mild, shady garden, especially in acid to neutral soil. Protect from cold drying winds and provide support. It can also be grown indoors in a large container
Pruning
Pruning group 11 after flowering or leave unpruned
Propagation
Propagate by seed or layering
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, scale insects and tortrix moth
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lapageria rosea?

Ideal climber for a mild, shady garden, especially in acid to neutral soil. Protect from cold drying winds and provide support. It can also be grown indoors in a large container.

Where is the best place to plant Lapageria rosea?

Lapageria rosea prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lapageria rosea need?

Lapageria rosea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Lapageria rosea?

Pruning group 11 after flowering or leave unpruned.

How big does Lapageria rosea grow?

Lapageria rosea reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.

Is Lapageria rosea hardy in the UK?

Lapageria rosea has a UK hardiness rating of H3.

How do I propagate Lapageria rosea?

Propagate by seed or layering.