Suzanne with black eyes

Black-eyed Susan (Thunbergia alata) is a perennial climber that thrives in warm climates and is often grown as an annual in our latitudes. Originally from East Africa, it is prized for its abundant flowering and voluble habit, which enables it to cling naturally to trellises and pergolas. Its flowers, in shades of yellow, orange or white, have a characteristic dark centre.

It grows to a height of 10 metres.

It usually reaches a height of 1.5 to 3 metres and flowers from June until the first frost. Its heart-shaped foliage remains semi-evergreen in mild regions.

To thrive, Black-eyed Susan needs rich, well-drained, slightly moist soil. It prefers a sunny spot but will tolerate part shade. Regular watering is necessary during dry spells, while preventing excess water from escaping.

Sow in a greenhouse.

Sow indoors from February to March or directly in the ground after the last frost. Germination takes around 10-15 days at a temperature of 18-20°C. Transplanting outdoors takes place in May, after gradual acclimatisation.

It requires climbing support and can be trellised on a trellis or wire netting. Light pruning during the season will encourage denser flowering.

In mild climates, it can be kept from one year to the next by protecting it from the cold. Elsewhere, it is generally reseeded each spring. It can also be grown in pots and stored under cover in winter.

Little prone to disease, it can however be attacked by aphids or oedium in excessively humid conditions. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these symptoms.

Frequent monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these symptoms.

Frequent monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these symptoms.

Frequent monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these symptoms.

Frequent monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these symptoms.

Easy to grow, Black-eyed Susan is ideal for quickly beautifying a vertical space and offering a bright touch to the garden or balcony.