To ensure Maurandya barclaiana thrives, position it in a location receiving partial to full sun exposure. This plant loves sunlight but needs some protection during the hottest afternoons.

Mexican viper (Maurandya barclaiana)

Also known as: Creeping Gloxinia, Mexican Love Vine

Maurandya barclayana (also known as Asarina barclayana), commonly referred to as angel's trumpet or Mexican viper, is an ornamental plant in the Plantaginaceae family. It is mentioned in Charles Darwin's book "The Movements and Habits of Climbing Plants."

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Mexican viper

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Plant Height

1 to 3 meters (3.2 to 9.8 feet)

Spread

Spread is generally around 1 to 2 meters (3.2 to 6.5 feet)

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

2 to 5 centimeters (0.8 to 2 inches)

Flower Color

White, pink, blue, purple

Images of Mexican viper

Quickly Identify Mexican viper

Look for its climbing or spreading habit, heart-shaped leaves, and tubular flowers that range in colors including white, pink, blue, and purple. It often has twining stems that help it cling to supports.

Scientific Classification of Mexican viper

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Plantain

Genus

Maurandya

Species

Mexican viper

Planting and Growing of Mexican viper

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Mexican viper?

Maurandya barclayana appreciates a steady but moderate watering routine. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, but not waterlogged, with about 200 ml of water per session.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Mexican viper? ›

What should I do if my Mexican viper is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Mexican viper? ›

How to save an overwatered Mexican viper? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mexican viper?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Maurandya barclaiana ideally prefers partial sun to full sun, thriving best with 6-8 hours of daily sunlight. Such conditions foster robust growth and vibrant flowering.

Optimal Sun Exposure ›

Bright and Warm Environment ›

Balancing Light Intensity ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mexican viper?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Maurandya barclaiana thrives best in moderate temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F. In this range, the plant can maintain optimal physiological functions, ensuring vibrant growth and blooming. The metabolic processes, such as photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, are most effective within these boundaries, promoting health and resilience against pests and diseases.

What Soil is Best for Mexican viper?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Maurandya barclaiana thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This type of soil structure allows excess water to escape quickly, providing a healthy environment for growth. Maurandya barclaiana benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate, which supplies essential minerals and encourages vigorous growth and flowering. The use of organic matter such as compost also enhances soil fertility. This plant prefers soil that retains moderate moisture without becoming soggy. A balanced water retention ability ensures that the roots remain hydrated but not waterlogged, promoting healthy plant development.

How to Fertilize Mexican viper?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Maurandya barclaiana, using a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, apply 1-2 teaspoons per gallon of water. Ensure that the mixture is adequately diluted to prevent root burn, and always water the plant beforehand to discourage fertilizer salts from accumulating in the soil. Solid fertilizers should be applied strictly following the manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-fertilization.

How to Prune Mexican viper?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by identifying stems that appear old, damaged, or diseased. Using clean, sharp shears, cut these stems back to the base to promote healthier growth. This step is crucial to help the plant direct energy to new, vigorous stems. To maintain the desired shape and size of your Maurandya barclaiana, regularly trim back overgrown sections. Focus on cutting back stems that extend beyond your intended boundary, encouraging a dense and compact growth habit. To achieve a fuller appearance, pinch the tips of young shoots. This encourages the plant to branch out, reducing leggy growth and increasing bushiness, which is especially beneficial for this climber's aesthetic appeal. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Mexican viper plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Begin by filling a seedling tray with seed starting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface of the mix, pressing them lightly into the soil. Ensure the seeds are evenly spaced to promote healthy growth and reduce competition for resources.

Take cuttings from a healthy Maurandya barclaiana plant using sharp pruning shears. Each cutting should be about 3-5 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to reduce water loss and plant the cut end in a moist rooting medium.

Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil by watering regularly. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Place the seedlings or cuttings in a location with bright, indirect light and monitor them for signs of growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Mexican viper plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Maurandya barclaiana shows signs of needing repotting when roots start emerging from the drainage holes or when growth becomes stunted. It's best to repot during spring or autumn when the plant is actively growing but not at its peak, allowing it to recover quickly and adjust to the fresh soil and space.

Select a pot slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. The new pot should allow enough space for root expansion without being excessively large, which prevents the risk of root rot from excess moisture. Opting for a pot that complements the plant's aesthetic adds a decorative touch.

A well-draining potting mix is crucial for Maurandya barclaiana. The mix should retain sufficient moisture while allowing excess water to escape, preventing root rot and encouraging healthy growth. Ingredients like perlite or sand can enhance drainage, making a breathable environment for the roots.