Sollya heterophylla Rosea

The Sollya heterophylla 'Rosea' is a small vine of Australian origin, which should be reserved for outdoor cultivation in the mildest climates, as it only withstands short periods of frost, down to -5 °C. With its fine decorative evergreen foliage, it climbs up to 2m (7ft) high on a trellis or any other support that allows it to attach with its voluble stems. Throughout the summer, it produces charming pink bell-shaped flowers. In climates too cool to accommodate it outdoors, it can be planted in a pot to be sheltered in winter.

The Sollya heterophylla, also known as Billardiera heterophylla, is a flexible plant with a woody base and herbaceous growth, belonging to the small family of Pittosporaceae, just like Pittosporums, shrubs to which it does not resemble at all. It is native to Western Australia, Tasmania, and the state of Victoria, located in southeastern Australia, and has occasionally naturalised on the French Riviera, as it easily self-seeds. With rapid growth, this plant, with a climbing, bushy, or spreading habit, produces voluble stems that can reach 1.50m (5ft) to 2m (7ft) under our climates, with a spread of 1m (3ft) to 1.50m (5ft). On its slender stems, it develops evergreen foliage, of a medium green colour, glossy, with a light green underside. Its leaves, 4 to 5 cm (2in) long, are entire and ovate or lanceolate in shape. In the 'Rosea' variety, as its name indicates, the flowers are light pink and not blue like in the species. Flowering occurs from June to September, in the form of small campanulate flowers, 1 to 2 cm (0 to 1in) long, with a very romantic appearance. They are grouped in terminal cymes, in groups of 4 to 8, delicately hanging from long purple peduncles, and are followed by the formation of edible dark blue berries, 2 to 3 cm (1in) long. The seeds germinate easily in light soil.

Despite its ornamental qualities, Sollya heterophylla 'Rosea' is not widely spread in Mediterranean regions with little frost, as it tolerates summer drought quite well. Fortunately for gardeners in cooler climates, it grows very well in pots, which can be adorned with a trellis to guide it, with its voluble stems wrapping around the posts and slats. It should be brought indoors in a frost-free, bright room in winter, such as a conservatory. With low maintenance and little susceptibility to insect or disease attacks, it is also a great choice for coastal areas. In the garden, it will be appreciated for its exuberance, lovely foliage, and long-lasting charming pink flowers, which blend with the foliage and flowers of its neighbours. Ideal for covering a fence, you can associate it with other climbers that bloom in spring to enjoy flowers throughout the growing season. For winter and early spring, a Clematis cirrhosa, another climber suitable for mild climates, will delight you with its charming single flowers, white or purplish. And to ensure a smooth transition with our little Sollya, plant the Clianthus puniceus Flamingo, or "lobster claw", an evocative name for its stunning coral pink flowers, which bloom from April to July.