Purple Wreath Petrea volubilis or 'Purple Wreath' is an ideal substitute for Wisteria in the tropics and subtropics, Petrea volubilis is regarded as the best blue flowering climber for the climate. Actual flowers are small, blue blossoms surrounded by large, blue sepals. After the flower dies the sepals retain their colour for many weeks, slowly fading before falling off the vine. Leaves are rough with a sandpaper-like texture, and may be semi-deciduous during cold winter periods in cooler districts.
Care Native to Central America (Mexico to Panama) and the West Indies, Petrea belongs to a genus that includes a range of climbers, trees and shrubs. Although suited to the Tropics, they can do quite well in Sydney, as you can see from the pictures of Grahams specimen above. Petrea will grow in most parts of Australia so long as they are protected from frost. Choose a warm and sheltered position with free draining soil, rich in organic matter. You will need something for the Petrea to climb up, such as a trellis or pergola. Help the plant climb when its young by carefully training it up and along its support structure. Once established, a light prune after flowering is all that is necessary to keep your Petrea neat and healthy.
Uses A great substitute for Wisteria if you live in a warm climate. Perfect for training over pergolas or climbing up walls and trellis.
Where to buy
Petrea volubilis and other rare, tropical vines can be purchased via mail order from Weslor Flowers.
Contact Wes on 07 5488 6923 or by emailing him on weslor@activ8.net.au for more info.
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