Phaseolus

Phaseolus - New Zealand’s Best Snail-Vine Plants

Adding colourful climbers to your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space
• They attract birds
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have the right variety of Snail-Vine plants for your space in our large range of plants. These have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Phaseolus plants, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Phaseolus

1. Where is the best place to plant a snail vine?

Snail vines (Vigna caracalla), also known as snail beans or corkscrew plants, are attractive evergreen vines that thrive in warm climates. They are native to Central and South America and prefer full sun, high humidity, and well-drained soil.

Here are some of the best places to plant a snail vine:

• Trellises and arbours: Snail vines are vigorous climbers and can quickly cover a trellis or arbour. This makes them an excellent choice for adding shade and privacy to a patio or outdoor space.
• Fences and walls: Snail vines can also be trained to climb fences and walls. This is a great way to add colour and interest to a plain wall or fence.
• Hanging baskets and containers: Snail vines can also be grown in hanging baskets and containers. This is a great option for adding a touch of greenery to a balcony or porch.

Here are some additional tips for planting and caring for snail vines:

• Soil: Snail vines prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. Amend your soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve drainage and fertility.
• Watering: Snail vines like to be kept moist but not soggy. Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your snail vines every few weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Pruning: Snail vines can grow quickly and may need to be pruned back occasionally to maintain their shape and size.

With proper care, snail vines can be a beautiful and rewarding addition to your garden.

2. Is corkscrew vine the same as snail vine?

Yes, corkscrew vine and snail vine are the same plant. The plant has two common names, both of which refer to its unique flower buds. The buds are tightly coiled and resemble a snail's shell, hence the name "snail vine." The buds also spiral open in a corkscrew-like fashion, hence the name "corkscrew vine."

The plant's scientific name is Vigna caracalla. It is a fast-growing, vining plant that can reach up to 30 feet in length. It has dark green leaves and produces showy, fragrant flowers that are typically purple or blue in color. The flowers are followed by long, bean-like pods.

Corkscrew vine is a popular choice for gardens and patios because it is easy to grow and care for. It is also a good choice for attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.

3. Are corkscrew vines poisonous?

There is some conflicting information about whether or not corkscrew vines are poisonous. Some sources claim that the plant is toxic to both humans and animals, while others claim that it is not.

4. Is corkscrew vine a climber or creeper?

Corkscrew vine (Vigna caracalla) is a climber if it has something to support it. If there isn’t a trellis or the like for it to climb, it will grow along the ground as a creeper.