Asarina
Asarina scandens (syn. Maurandya scandens)
Asarina scandens, known as Climbing Snapdragon, is a delicate yet vigorous tender perennial vine producing masses of tubular, snapdragon-like flowers. Perfect for trellises and containers, it blooms profusely from summer to frost.
Plantaginaceae (Plantain family, formerly Scrophulariaceae)
Summer to frost (June-October); year-round in frost-free climates
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: penstemons and obedient plants also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Asarina scandens brings a delicate, romantic charm to gardens with its trumpet-shaped flowers cascading from slender vines. Despite its fragile appearance, the vine is quite vigorous and adaptable, symbolizing delicate strength and graceful persistence. The tubular flowers are especially attractive to hummingbirds, making Asarina popular in wildlife gardens. Its ability to quickly cover trellises and fences while maintaining an airy, delicate appearance has made it a favorite in cottage and romantic garden designs.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; partial afternoon shade in hot climates for best performance
Water
Moderate to consistent moisture; performs best with regular watering but tolerates brief dry periods once established
Soil
Rich, Well-drained, Fertile, Humus-rich, Moist, Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
Use peat pots or paper pots - roots dislike disturbance
Provide support early; vines climb via twining stems and leaf petioles
Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting
Space plants 12 inches apart
Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming
Fertilize 1-2 times during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Grows as perennial in zones 9-11; annual elsewhere
Can be overwintered indoors as container plant
May self-seed in mild climates
Tolerates both heat and cool weather
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Trellis and arbor climber
- Fence and wall coverage
- Hanging baskets (trailing form)
- Container plantings
- Vertical garden accent
- Porch and patio screens
- Groundcover (if unsupported)
- Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Asarina
is asarina a perennial or annual
Asarina is a tender perennial that survives winters in frost-free zones 9-11 — in colder climates it's grown as an annual, dying in frost, or overwintered indoors in containers.
how fast does climbing snapdragon grow
Climbing Snapdragon grows quickly, reaching 6-10 feet in a single growing season — provide early support and it will begin climbing and blooming by midsummer.
do hummingbirds like asarina
Yes, hummingbirds are highly attracted to Asarina's tubular trumpet flowers — the vine is an excellent choice for hummingbird gardens along with bees and butterflies.
can asarina grow in shade
Asarina performs best in full sun to partial shade — it tolerates light afternoon shade, especially in hot climates, but flowers most profusely with at least 4-6 hours of sun.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Penstemon
Penstemon spp.
Penstemon, commonly called Beardtongue, produces spikes of tubular flowers beloved by hummingbirds. These hardy perennials symbolize courage, spiritual strength, and the rugged beauty of the American West.
Obedient Plant
Physostegia virginiana
The Obedient Plant produces spikes of tubular flowers that can be moved and stay in position, hence its name. This native North American perennial symbolizes flexibility, adaptability, and gentle compliance.
Dierama
Dierama pulcherrimum (and other spp.)
Dierama, known as Angel's Fishing Rod, is an elegant South African perennial featuring graceful, arching stems adorned with pendulous bell-shaped flowers. The delicate blooms sway in the breeze above grass-like foliage, creating a magical garden display.