Thunbergia grandiflora (Bengal Clockvine)

Native to tropical Asian locations it has become widely naturalized beyond its native range​​​​. Characterized by elliptic to heart-shaped dark green leaves covered in soft hairs, the plant is known for its impressive climbing ability, commonly used to quickly cover arbors, trellises, and fences. The flowers, which are particularly noteworthy, are trumpet-shaped, lavender blue with yellow throats, blooming year-round in tropical climates​​​​​​. There is a white flower variety. The vine has been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Photographed in Panama.