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Thunbergia alata

Black-Eyed Susan Vine

Thunbergia alata is a fast growing flowering climber admired for its colourful blooms and lush green foliage. Flowering over the warmer months, it quickly covers fences, trellises, arches, and pergolas with masses of cheerful flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Well suited to New Zealand gardens, Thunbergia alata is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting rapid coverage together with long lasting seasonal colour.

Thunbergia alata with masses of orange flowers and dark green foliage.
Thunbergia alata orange flower with a dark centre.
Lush Thunbergia alata plant with an orange flower.

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Climbers
Height:2.50 m
Spread:2.50 m
Flowering time:Spring, Summer, Autumn
Tolerances:
Garden uses:Arches, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsSome
Growth rateMedium
Also known asBlack-Eyed Susan Vine
Sku13972

How to grow Thunbergia alata in NZ

Thunbergia alata grows best in a sunny to partly shaded position with fertile, well drained soil. Improve the soil with compost before planting and water regularly while the vine establishes. Provide a trellis or other support for climbing and apply a quality flowering plant fertiliser during spring and summer to encourage vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Thunbergia alata care tips

Thunbergia alata is easy to care for and benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods. Apply mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture while keeping it away from the stems. Trim lightly to control growth, encourage branching, and prolong flowering. Protect plants from heavy frost in colder parts of New Zealand.

Thunbergia alata size, spacing, and growth rate

Thunbergia alata typically grows 2 to 3 metres tall with suitable support and spreads about 1 to 2 metres. It has a fast growth rate during warm weather and quickly creates dense leafy coverage. Space plants about 1 to 1.5 metres apart for the best display and healthy airflow.

Landscaping uses for Thunbergia alata

Thunbergia alata is ideal for covering fences, pergolas, arches, trellises, and screens while adding vibrant colour to patios and outdoor living areas. It also performs well in hanging baskets and large containers where the stems can trail gracefully. Its colourful flowers complement cottage, subtropical, and contemporary garden styles.

Why buy Thunbergia alata from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company is NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, supplying premium quality plants grown for outstanding performance in New Zealand conditions. Every Thunbergia alata is carefully selected, packed, and shipped to ensure it arrives healthy and ready to establish. Our experienced team provides expert advice together with fast nationwide delivery so you can buy with complete confidence.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Thunbergia alata (Black-Eyed Susan Vine)? We are here to help.

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