How to Grow Mina Lobata, or Spanish Flag
Perennial, Ipomoea Lobata
Mina Lobata, popularly called Spanish Flag, is a perennial. It is often grown
as an annual in colder regions. Native to Central and South America, Mina
Lobata is a member of the Morning Glory family. It is one of the most popular
climbing vines.
Mina Lobata is very popular The showy flowers of this fast climber, will
bloom all year round, in tropical regions. The tubular flowers change color.
Blooms start out a scarlet red, turn orange, and finish up a creamy yellow
after blooming.
Mina Lobata's nectar rich flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Other Names: Spanish Flag, Exotic Love Vine, Fire Vine, Firecracker
Vine
Plant Height: up to 18 feet
Plant Propagation:
Mina Lobata plants are grown from seeds. Directly sow seeds outdoors after
danger of frost has past, and the soil has warmed up. You can start plants
indoors, 4-6 weeks before the last frost in your area..
The young plants are frost tender. Transplant seedling outdoors after the
low temperatures exceed 40-45 degrees.
Garden Tip: Nick seeds, or soak overnight, to improve germination.
Spanish Flag can also be propagated by rooting stem cuttings.
Days to Germination: seeds sprout in 10 - 15 days.
How to Grow Mina Lobata:
These plants are easy to grow, and fast growing.
Grow Mina Lobata plants in full sun.
Plants grow best in a rich, humus soil that is well-drained. Mix plenty of
compost and manure into the planting site.
Do not over feed nitrogen rich fertilizer, or you will end up with lots of
leaves and vines, but few flowers. Begin the season with a high nitrogen
fertilizer formula at the beginning of the season. Switch to a high phosphorous
formula prior to the blooming period.
Plants are heat and drought tolerant.
Keep soil moist, water as needed, and especially during hot, dry periods.
Mulch around plants to keep weeds down, and for a neat and tidy appearance.
Provide a trellis, fence or arbor for the vines to climb.
Flowers Bloom: Summer to Fall
Insects, Disease, Pests:
Red spider mites and whiteflies can be a problem. Apply insecticide or
insecticidal soap at the first sign of insect s.
More on insect problems.
Several plant problems can arise, including white blister, rust, fungal leaf
spots, and wilts. Apply fungicides, as needed.
Mina Lobata are reed resistant.
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