Thunbergia alata ‘White Halo’ (Suzana cu ochi negri)

Thunbergia alata ‘White Halo’, also known as the “Black-eyed Susan vine,” is an ornamental climbing plant valued for its bright white flowers with a dark, well-defined center. Native to East Africa, this species is often grown as an annual in temperate climates due to its fast growth and abundant flowering.

🌼 General Characteristics

• Plant type: annual climber (perennial in frost-free areas)

• Family: Acanthaceae

• Height: up to 2.4 meters in a single season

• Foliage: dark green, heart-shaped or triangular, with slightly toothed edges

• Growth: fast, can cover supports within one season

• Flowers: white, with a dark center (dark brown or black), approximately 3–5 cm in diameter

• Flowering period: from spring until the first frost 

☀️ Environmental Requirements

• Light: prefers full sun; tolerates partial shade but flowering may be reduced

• Soil: rich in organic matter, well-drained, with neutral pH

• Watering: moderate; keep soil slightly moist, avoiding excess water

• Temperature: ideal between 18°C and 30°C; does not tolerate temperatures below 4°C

🌿 Care and Maintenance

• Support: requires support structures such as trellises, fences, or pergolas

• Fertilization: apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season

• Pruning: not necessary; removing wilted flowers can encourage more blooming

• Overwintering: in cold winter areas, can be grown in pots and brought indoors

🐝 Benefits and Uses

• Pollinator attraction: flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

• Versatility: suitable for vertical gardens, hanging baskets, containers, and as temporary ground cover (not frost-hardy).

• Aesthetic: adds a splash of color and vitality to any space 

Thunbergia alata ‘White Halo’ is an excellent choice for those seeking an ornamental climbing plant that is easy to maintain, blooms abundantly, and has a bright appearance, suitable for gardens, terraces, or balconies.

The displayed price is for a plant with or without flowers.

Height including pot approx. 25-30 cm