Cathedral Bell (Cobaea scandens), also known as Cup-and-Saucer Vine, is a fast-growing, perennial climbing plant belonging to the Polemoniaceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America, this elegant vine is celebrated for its bell-shaped flowers and lush foliage, making it a popular choice for adorning trellises, walls, and pergolas. While it thrives as a perennial in tropical climates, it is often grown as an annual in temperate regions.
Cobaea scandens originates from the warm climates of Mexico and Central America, where it grows naturally in forested areas and climbs trees with its tendrils. Its name "Cathedral Bell" refers to the large, bell-shaped flowers, and "Cup-and-Saucer Vine" reflects its distinctive flower structure with a "cup" resting on a saucer-like calyx. Introduced to Europe in the late 18th century, it quickly gained popularity in ornamental gardening for its striking appearance and rapid growth.
Cathedral Bell is a vigorous climber that can reach heights of 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) in a single growing season. Its stems produce delicate, tendril-like structures that allow it to cling to supports. The leaves are pinnate, with ovate, green leaflets that provide a dense backdrop for its flowers.
The plant’s standout feature is its large, bell-shaped flowers, which are initially pale green and mature to shades of deep purple or white, depending on the variety. The flowers are surrounded by a saucer-shaped calyx, adding to their ornamental appeal. Blooming from mid-summer to autumn, the fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The vine also produces elongated, green seed pods that contain numerous flat seeds.
Seeds: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Scarify seeds by lightly sanding the edges or soaking them in warm water for 24 hours to enhance germination. Sow seeds flat on the surface of seed-starting mix and cover lightly with 1 cm (1/2 inch) of soil.
Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart.
Direct Sowing: In warmer climates, sow seeds directly outdoors in spring once the soil has warmed.
Light: Plant in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best flowering.
Support: Provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or arbor for the vine to climb, as it can grow up to 4–6 meters (12–20 feet) in a single season.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote lush foliage and abundant blooms.
Pruning: Prune lightly to control growth and remove dead or damaged stems. In cooler climates, trim back the vine in fall after the first frost.
Cathedral Bell is widely grown for its ornamental value. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it ideal for covering trellises, fences, walls, and pergolas, creating an eye-catching vertical display. The plant is also used to add height and color to garden borders and can be trained over arches or obelisks. Its showy flowers are a favorite in cottage and tropical garden designs, and the vine’s fast growth makes it an effective choice for quickly providing privacy or shade.
