Sollya Heterophylla

Sollya Heterophylla

Why Buy Me?

• Pretty bell shaped flowers
• Ideal for a pergola or trellis
• Evergreen

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Flowers best in full sun, but tolerates light or dappled shade, particularly in hotter climates where afternoon shade may prevent leaf scorch.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil. Prefers sandy or loamy soil types with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils as roots are prone to rot in poor drainage conditions.

Exposure:
Ideal for sheltered positions such as sunny walls, trellises, archways, or pergolas. Also well-suited for containers in protected courtyards or conservatories. Needs protection from frost in colder climates — best overwintered indoors or grown in frost-free regions.

Drought Tolerance:
Low to moderate. Requires regular watering during dry spells and when grown in containers. Sensitive to prolonged drought; keep evenly moist during the growing season for best performance.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed. In mild climates, early autumn planting is also possible to allow establishment before winter.

Spacing:
Space 1–1.5 m (3–5 ft) apart if planting multiple vines. Grows 2–3 m (6.5–10 ft) tall and wide with support, forming a scrambling, twining habit. Suitable for smaller vertical supports.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly to maintain lightly moist soil, especially in containers or dry periods. Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. A mid-season boost can enhance flowering and foliage health.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning Group 10:
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any weak or dead stems. Can be pruned harder in early spring if needed for rejuvenation.

Propagation:
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or from seed in spring. Seed propagation is slower but possible; named forms are best propagated vegetatively to maintain true characteristics.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New shoots emerge; fresh green foliage begins to develop. Early flower buds may appear in warm regions.

Summer:
Abundant clusters of small, bell-shaped, vivid blue to purplish-blue flowers bloom from early to late summer (June–September). Some varieties may produce occasional flowers beyond this period.

Autumn:
Late flowering can continue into early autumn in milder climates. Some small, fleshy green or blue berries may follow flowers if pollinated. Foliage remains green until cooler temperatures arrive.

Winter:
Evergreen to semi-evergreen in mild climates. In colder areas, may die back partially or entirely and regrow in spring. Needs winter protection below -5°C (23°F).

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attracts bees and other pollinators to the garden with its nectar-rich flowers. Birds may eat the berries, though they are not especially ornamental.

Garden Use:
A charming, small-scale climber or scrambler for fences, obelisks, trellises, or containers. Ideal for coastal gardens, sheltered patios, cottage-style plantings, and Mediterranean-inspired designs. Works well in greenhouses or conservatories in cooler climates.

Companion Plants:
Pairs nicely with other delicate climbers like Clematis, Trachelospermum jasminoides, or small Lonicera varieties. Underplant with soft-textured or silver-leaved perennials such as Lavandula, Erigeron, Nepeta, or Salvia greggii

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Sollya Heterophylla. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.