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Pseudogynoxys spp.
Mexican flame vine
Overview
Pseudogynoxys spp. is a genus of about a dozen evergreen, twining vines and scrambling subshrubs in the daisy family (Asteraceae), native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. The species most often grown in gardens, P. chenopodioides, climbs 6-15 feet (1.8-4.5 m) by twining stems and produces clusters of daisy-like flower heads about 1.5 inches (4 cm) across. The blooms open bright orange and deepen to red-orange as they age, so a single cluster often shows two colors at once. Flowering is nearly continuous in frost-free climates and draws large numbers of butterflies, giving rise to the common name flame vine. The green, arrow- to lance-shaped leaves are 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long with toothed margins. Pseudogynoxys spp. grows quickly and can need regular cutting back to stay within bounds. The genus is frost-tender, suited to USDA zones 9-11, though plants killed to the ground by light frost often regrow from the roots. Support such as a trellis or fence is needed for the climbing stems.
Native Range
Pseudogynoxys spp. is native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of tropical South America, where species grow in thickets, forest margins, and disturbed ground. P. chenopodioides originates in Mexico and has naturalized in warm regions elsewhere, including the southeastern United States.Suggested Uses
Grown on trellises, fences, arbors, and pergolas in warm-climate and butterfly gardens. The long bloom and butterfly appeal suit pollinator plantings and large containers with support. In colder regions it is grown as a fast seasonal climber.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 15'
Width/Spread3' - 6'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Bloom Information
In frost-free climates flowering continues for much of the year, peaking in the warm months from late spring through autumn. Each flush lasts several weeks, with new clusters opening orange and maturing to red. Cooler weather slows but rarely stops bloom.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
orange aging to red-orangeFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow Pseudogynoxys spp. in full sun for the heaviest flowering, with light afternoon shade tolerated in hot climates. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil kept evenly moist during active growth, reducing water in winter. Provide a trellis, fence, or other support for the twining stems. The genus grows vigorously and is cut back regularly to control its spread. Feed monthly in the growing season for sustained bloom. In zones colder than 9, it is grown as an annual or in a container moved under cover before frost.Pruning
Prune Pseudogynoxys spp. hard in late winter or early spring to remove tangled or frost-damaged growth and to keep the vine within its space. Pinching the stem tips during the growing season encourages branching and more flower clusters. Light trimming after each flush tidies the plant and removes seed heads.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons