Thunbergia alata is a fantastic tub plant. Use a large flower pot, planter or hanging basket (minimum diameter of 50 cm) with holes in the base. Cover the bottom with broken crocks or a layer of hydro pellets. Put potting compost in the pot and place the root ball of the Black-eyed Susan at the correct depth. Fill with more soil and press down firmly. Water your Thunbergia immediately after planting. Put the pot in a warm spot in full sun or partial shade.

Climbing Thunbergia mix

The long shoots of Thunbergia alata will look amazing trained to cover a frame, a climbing support or bamboo canes. Firmly position the climbing frame in the pot. It is also possible to train Black-eyed Susan along a wall or to cover your fence or trellis.

Thunbergia alata is a fast growing plant, therefore requires lots of water and nutrition. Give plenty of water in summer and less in autumn. Deadheading regularly encourages continuous flowering. For an extra rich bloom in case of potted plants, Bakker recommends regularly adding fertiliser when watering during summer. Thunbergia alata is usually grown as an annual plant. It is possible to overwinter this perennial in a warm sun lounge or in a greenhouse.

Black-Eyed Susan is native to tropical Africa and loves heat. It is named after its striking black heart, which looks just like the pupil of an eye. The flowers are white, yellow or orange. This particular fast-growing vine blooms all summer long until late autumn.