Thinking of creating a vertical garden? Then, ditch the commercial systems and bring home Thunbergia.
While the green walls look beautiful from the outside, they often require heavy maintenance. Even the initial set-up costs for a vertical garden can be daunting as much as the post set-up maintenance. Moreover, the constant upkeep that’s required to keep the plants healthy in the small pocket-sized planters can be discouraging.
On the contrary, setting up a vertical garden with the help of natural systems can not only bring down costs but also enhance aesthetics and sustenance in the long-run. Plants such as Thunbergia grandiflora can fulfil this desire with ease.
An evergreen vine, Thunbergia is a fast-growing climbing plant that produces thick green foliage and vibrant bell-shaped lavender coloured flowers. It is best to create a green façade anywhere in no-time with negligible maintenance. All you require is a trellis or chain-like fence or arbors for the plants to climb on and they will do the rest without your intervention.
Native to Asia, this plant is known by many names in different regions. From Bengal Clock Vine, Bengal Trumpet, Blue Trumpet Vine, this plant can be easily grown in any region in India.
Besides the beauty, Thunbergia also finds its place in spiritualism and medicine. Symbolizing the colour of Lord Krishna, it is known to create a calming effect on the mind. In ancient medicine, several parts of the plants were used to treat headaches, piles, and early rectal cancer, depression, skin problems, joint pain, etc.
Being an indigenous plant of India, it is very hardy in nature, requires very little maintenance and can survive the worst of all seasons. One can easily grow this plant in balconies, terraces or larger outdoor landscapes.
By Dipti Agarwal, resident of Kemp’s Corner,
Founder and Chief Gardening Officer, Peepal
Mob: +91 7400068705.
Email: dipti.agarwal@peepal.one
Website: https://peepal.one/
Instagram: peepalindia
