Corkscrew Vine Snails

Vigna Caracalla Characteristics

• The corkscrew vine is native to Caracas, Venezuela, hence the "caracalla" in the name. It is perennial in zones 12 to 24, and can be grown in Southern Florida, Hawaii, and parts of California. Elsewhere in the country it can be grown as an annual or be brought indoors over winter. The plant is known for its unique beauty as well as its fragrance and growth habits.

Growth Habits

• This vine is a very prolific grower, easily growing 6 feet up a trellis in one month, usually growing 10 to 25 feet in a season. The plant's flowers also bloom prolifically throughout the late summer and into the fall. The blooms are violet, cream, and yellow, shaped much like a snail's shell. The blossoms grow in foot long clusters, with each bloom measuring 1 to 2 inches.

Care

• Full sun and regular watering are essential to the health of the corkscrew vine. It is best placed along an arbor, fence or to cover a wall, and it will likely do so successfully in just one growing season. If planting multiple vines, they should be placed at least 10 feet away from one another.

  This plant is somewhat prone to aphids and root rot, so have some insecticidal soap handy in the event of aphids, and water regularly but make sure the roots are not resting in water to avoid root rot

Propagation

• The corkscrew vine is a very difficult plant to propagate. A few gardeners have found some success with cuttings, but they generally fail. Harvesting seed from your plant is the most effective method of propagation. Though generally not cheap, Vigna caracalla seeds can be bought from most retail providers. This is the best course of action if you'd like to plant a corkscrew vine, as garden center retailers usually do not carry the germinated plant.