Petrea, commonly called Purple wreath or Sandpaper vine comes from the Verbenaceae family and originated from Mexico and Central America.
Petrea was named after Lord Petre, who in the 18th century became famous for his collection of exotic plants.
Petrea is an exotic tropical shrub and semi-climber and is widely planted throughout the Caribbean because of its attractive star-shaped flowers which bloom in purple profusion.
There are two main varieties:- Petrea volubilis – Purple wreath and Petrea volubilis cv Albiflora – a white variety
Petrea is a fairly easily grown, and although it is usually a climber, with proper pruning it can also be grown as a shrub, or in a container and even in a hanging basket. It prefers soil that is well drained and fertile, and a little on the acidic side.
It likes full sunlight or partial shade, and average water (do not over-water), although once it is well established it will put up with dry conditions. It is less happy in the heavy rains of the wet season. It can be propagated from woody stem cuttings, or from seed. In fact, it is self-sowing, although unwanted seedlings are easily removed from the soil.
This plant would make a showpiece in any garden.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
