Mexican Flame Vine
Mexican Flame Vine (Pseudogynoxys chenopodioides)
By Dinesh Valke from Thane, India - Senecio confusus, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51605631
Scientific Name: Pseudogynoxys chenopodioides
Common Names: Mexican Flame Vine, Orange Flame Vine, Scarlet Creeper
Native to: Mexico and Central America
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in full sun)
Height: 10 to 12 feet (as a climbing or sprawling vine)
Width: Spreads 6 to 8 feet or more, depending on support and pruning
Winter Look: Dies back in average Central Texas winters
Seasonal Interest: Vibrant, daisy-like orange flowers bloom prolifically from spring to fall
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate short dry periods once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; adaptable to sandy or loamy soils
pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9–11; grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones
Deer Resistance: Moderate; not a preferred food for deer
Attracts: Butterflies, bees, and other pollinators
Potential Issues: Susceptible to aphids and spider mites; may require regular pruning to manage size and shape
Notes: Mexican Flame Vine is a fast-growing, vibrant climbing plant celebrated for its striking orange flowers attracting butterflies and pollinators. Its bright blooms and lush green foliage make it an excellent choice for adding color to fences, trellises, arbors, or walls.
This vine thrives in warm climates and prefers a sunny location for the best flowering display. While it can tolerate some drought, regular watering during dry spells will promote healthy growth and blooming. Occasional pruning may be necessary to maintain its shape and prevent excessive spreading.
It can be grown annually or in containers brought indoors during the winter in frost-prone areas. With its vivid flowers and ease of growth, Mexican Flame Vine is a fantastic addition to tropical or pollinator-friendly gardens. It creates a dramatic impact when used in mixed plantings or as a standalone feature, providing long-lasting seasonal interest.
By Yucalyptus - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=146363496