Rhodochiton atrosanguineus

A fascinating tender climber from Mexico, Purple bell vine, Rhodochiton atrosanguineus, bears long dangling flowers resembling drop earrings, from midsummer to autumn. Each flower is composed of a long, slender, purple-black tube growing out of a chalice-shaped mauve calyx. The plants are useful for covering trellis or arches, or adding interest to the bare base of other climbers.

Grow Rhodochiton atrosanguineus in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. It's best grown as an annual in the UK, with new plants easily raised from seed. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).