A native of South America, this tropical vine is also known a corkscrew vine, climbing shell vine, and snail vine. It is a tender perennial, tropical vine that climbs by twining. The flowers are fragrant, range in color from white to purplish pink and appear as early as spring but more commonly in late summer. They have the typical pea form with a hooked keel but are spirally twisted. The fruits are pods up to seven inches in length. The leaves have three leaflets and are about three inches long. Caracalla bean is very vigorous but must be given a support to climb. It can be controlled by cutting back or withholding water. In cold climates it is grown as house plant or brought inside for the winter.
Type: Tender perennial
Bloom: White to purplish blue, spirally twisted flowers in late summer
Size: 15-20’
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Average, moist, well-drained
Hardiness: Zones 9-11
Care: Prune to control
Pests and Diseases: None of significance
Propagation: Cuttings, seed
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Karen Meyers