Canary Bird Flower (Tropaeolum peregrinum) is a charming heirloom vine that earned its whimsical name from its delicate, bright yellow blooms that truly resemble tiny birds in flight. This heat-loving climber produces masses of fringed flowers from early summer through fall, reaching 8 to 12 feet tall and spreading 2 to 5 feet wide depending on support. Hardy in zone 9, it transforms from seed to full bloom in just 84 to 98 days, making it a rewarding addition to sunny gardens where it attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
9-9
144in H x 60in W
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High
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The cheerful, fringed yellow flowers arrive prolifically throughout summer and fall, each one resembling a tiny canary in mid-flight. Once established, this drought-tolerant vine becomes remarkably self-sufficient, thriving in full sun with minimal water while producing blooms continuously until frost. The heirloom pedigree combined with its fast bloom time (less than 100 days from seed) makes it an easy entry point for gardeners who want reliable color without fussy care.
Grown primarily as an ornamental flowering vine, the Canary Bird Flower excels at adorning trellises, arbors, and tall structures where its graceful vining habit and bright yellow blossoms can be appreciated. The flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, making it a natural choice for pollinator gardens and cottage garden settings where movement and wildlife activity add visual interest.
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Sow seeds indoors in pots 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost date. Soak seeds in water overnight before sowing to improve germination. Maintain soil temperature between 65 to 70°F and expect sprouts to emerge in 7 to 14 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, spacing them 1 inch apart. Harden off gradually before moving to their final location in full sun.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date once soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed.
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