Spanish Flag is a showstopping herbaceous vine that transforms a trellis into a living fireworks display from summer through frost. Native to Mexico and parts of South America, this heirloom climber reaches 10 to 16 feet tall and spreads 1 to 2 feet wide, producing distinctive one-sided flower spikes that arch gracefully outward from the stems. The tubular flowers open in shades of red and mature through the season, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds in waves. Hardy only in zones 10-11, it's widely grown as an annual across colder regions, blooming reliably 91 to 105 days from seed to first flowers.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
10-11
192in H x 24in W
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High
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Those arching flower spikes are the real show here, bursting with tubular blooms that shift color as they age, held on slender stems that seem to dance away from the vine. The plant thrives in full sun and moderate moisture with almost no fussing once established. It blooms prolifically from July straight through to frost, providing nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds throughout the growing season. The lobed foliage is an attractive bonus, reaching 2 to 6 inches long with a distinctive three-part shape.
Spanish Flag is grown exclusively as an ornamental annual or tender perennial, prized for clothing trellises, arbors, and pergolas with vibrant color. Its primary role is to add vertical drama to the garden and serve as a living nectar station for butterflies and hummingbirds throughout the warm season. The showy flower spikes make it especially valuable for gardeners seeking a fast-growing, season-long pollinator magnet.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before your average last frost date in pots kept at 65-70°F, or ideally 70°F or warmer to speed germination. Nick or lightly file the seed coat and soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to break dormancy. Expect sprouting in 5-14 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors only after all frost danger has passed.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors 2 weeks after your last frost date, once the threat of frost is completely past. Space plants 1 inch apart and water in well with compost-enriched soil.
Direct sow seeds outdoors about 2 weeks after your last frost date when soil has warmed thoroughly.
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“Spanish Flag originated in Mexico and parts of South America, where it has been cultivated for centuries as an ornamental vine. It has since spread around the world, finding favor among gardeners who appreciate its architectural growth habit and flamboyant flower display. The common name 'Spanish Flag' references the warm color progression of the blooms, which evoke the imagery of a flag unfurling in the breeze. This heirloom variety represents a tradition of growing ornamental vines for vertical interest and pollinator attraction in warm climates.”