Overview
Telfairia occidentalis is a plant with a climbing habit in the genus Telfairia, part of the Cucurbitaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Telfairia occidentalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Telfairia occidentalis, commonly known as krobonko, is a climbing plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. It is deciduous and thrives in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect. This cultivar prefers fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Suitable for cultivation in conservatories and greenhouses in the UK, it is hardy to H1b and is best propagated by seed or division. Its season of interest spans spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Telfairia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Telfairia occidentalis size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Telfairia occidentalis
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to rhizome rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Telfairia occidentalis?
Telfairia occidentalis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Telfairia occidentalis need?
Telfairia occidentalis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Telfairia occidentalis hardy in the UK?
Telfairia occidentalis has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Telfairia occidentalis?
Seed, division.