Corallita

Corallita commonly called Mexican creeper originates from Mexico and belongs to the Polygonaceae family – ie, the buckwheat family.

Corallita is a vigorous perennial vine that grows on fences throughout the Caribbean in full sun.

The leaves are heart-shaped with wavy edges.  The small flowers grow in great profusion and are bright pink in colour with deeper pink centres.

Think about where you want to plant this vine and train it accordingly, as it can quickly take over an area.  If you have a trellis, this would be ideal for it to run on, or you can let it run on a chain-link fence as it would quickly cover up the fence with its pretty bright pink flowers. If it gets out of hand, prune it to control it.

20130505peggyIdeally it prefers slightly acid, moist, well-drained soil, but it is fairly tolerant, and will even put up with a certain amount of drought.

It can be grown from seed or even from cuttings.  Fertilize once per month with Mircle Gro All Purpose.

Until next week, happy gardening.