Solandra yellow

Solandra Maxima The Cup of Gold Vine
Solandra maxima, also called the Cup of Gold Vine, Golden Chalice Vine, or Trumpet Vine, is a fast-growing, evergreen climber native to Mexico and Central America. It’s best known for its enormous, golden-yellow flowers, shaped like goblets or cups, which exude a strong, sweet fragrance—especially at night. The vine’s lush green foliage and dramatic blooms make it a striking choice for trellises, pergolas, or fences in tropical and subtropical gardens.

🌸 General Description
Botanical Name: Solandra maxima

Common Names: Cup of Gold Vine, Golden Chalice Vine, Hawaiian Lily, Trumpet Plant

Plant Type: Woody evergreen climber or scrambling shrub

Height: 15–50 feet (can be trained shorter)

Spread: 6–15 feet

Leaves: Glossy, leathery, dark green, up to 8 inches long

Flowers: Huge, cup- or trumpet-shaped (6–10 inches across), golden-yellow with purple-brown throat veins

Fragrance: Strong, sweet (often compared to coconut or vanilla)

Blooming Season: Late winter to summer; in warm climates, can bloom intermittently year-round

☀️ Light and Temperature Requirements
Sunlight:

Thrives in full sun to partial shade

Requires at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering

In extremely hot zones, some afternoon shade is helpful

Temperature:

Ideal temperature range: 20–35°C (68–95°F)

Hardy in USDA zones 9–11

Cannot tolerate frost or prolonged cold (below 5°C / 41°F)

Grow in pots in cooler regions and move indoors during winter

💡 Tip: In cooler areas, grow against a sunny wall to maximize warmth and shelter.

💧 Watering Routine
Young plants:

Water 2–3 times per week to help establish roots

Mature plants:

Water once or twice a week in warm weather

Reduce watering during winter or rainy season

Soil moisture: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy

Container plants: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry

⚠️ Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soil.

🌱 Soil and Fertilizer Needs
Soil:

Prefers well-draining, fertile loam

Tolerates sandy or slightly acidic soil

Ideal pH: 6.0–7.0

Fertilizer:

Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during active growth

For extra flowering: apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer like bone meal or bloom boosters

Organic compost or cow dung can be added to enrich the soil naturally

🪴 In containers, feed with liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks during growing season.

✂️ Pruning and Maintenance
When to prune:

After the flowering flush or in early spring

How to prune:

Remove old, dead, or tangled stems

Trim for shape and size control (can grow aggressively)

Cut back lightly to encourage bushy, compact growth

🌿 Solandra vines are vigorous climbers—train them early on a sturdy trellis, arbor, or fence.

🌿 Propagation Methods
Stem Cuttings (most common method):

Take 6–8 inch semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or early summer

Dip in rooting hormone and plant in moist sand or cocopeat

Keep in humid, warm place; roots form in 4–6 weeks

Air Layering:

Effective for thicker stems; wrap with moist sphagnum moss and plastic

Seeds:

Possible, but slow and unreliable compared to cuttings

🌱 Cuttings grow faster and preserve the parent plant’s traits.

🐛 Pests and Diseases
Generally low-maintenance, but occasional issues include:

Aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies

Spider mites in dry, hot conditions

Fungal leaf spot or root rot from overwatering

🛡️ Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap, and ensure good air circulation. Avoid wetting the leaves too much.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning
All parts of Solandra maxima are considered toxic if ingested, especially to pets and children.

Sap may cause mild skin irritation—wear gloves when pruning.

🌼 Landscape and Container Uses
Climbing vine for fences, pergolas, or large trellises

Arbor cover for tropical gardens

Large containers on patios or balconies

Green screens for privacy and visual drama

🌿 Combine with tropical companions like Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Mandevilla, or Bird of Paradise for a lush, exotic feel.

✅ Conclusion
The Cup of Gold Vine (Solandra maxima) is a tropical treasure that brings huge, fragrant yellow blooms, lush greenery, and a dramatic climbing habit to any warm-climate garden. With regular watering, rich soil, and sunlight, it will thrive beautifully and become a showpiece in your outdoor space. Perfect for arches, walls, or large pots, Solandra is ideal for anyone who wants a statement vine with low maintenance.”