Introduction

Mitraria coccinea (Chilean Mitre Flower) is a evergreen climber in the Gesneriaceae family, reaching 2 metres with scarlet tubular flowers in summer. Hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Mitraria coccinea, commonly known as Chilean Mitre Flower, is a evergreen evergreen climber in the Gesneriaceae family. The plant reaches 2 metres in height with a spread of approximately 1.5 metres, climbing by means of a scrambling habit, using long arching stems that hook onto supports. The scarlet tubular flowers appear in summer, providing seasonal colour. The foliage is dark_green, maintaining its colour year-round as an evergreen. Growth rate is moderate growth rate, typically adding 30-60 cm per season. Native to Chile, this species has become a valued ornamental plant in temperate and subtropical gardens worldwide.

Botanical Description

Classification: Gesneriaceae > Mitraria > coccinea. The Gesneriaceae is the botanical family containing the genus Mitraria. This species is native to Chile and was introduced to European gardens from Chile. The genus Mitraria contains several species, many of which are valued in horticulture for their climbing habit and ornamental qualities.

Climbing Mechanism

Mitraria coccinea has a scrambling growth habit, producing long, vigorous stems that lean against and push through neighboring plants and structures. Unlike true climbers, it lacks specialized climbing organs and must be tied to supports for vertical training. The stems may have small thorns or a rough texture that helps them grip loosely. Regular tying-in is essential to maintain the desired form. Can reach 2 metres when supported.

Group Climbing Guide — Evergreen Climber

Mixed — self-clinging (Trachelospermum), twining, or need tying. Year-round weight on supports.

Planting Guide

Step 1 — Site Selection: Choose a position in partial shade (3-6 hours of filtered or morning sunlight) with well-drained soil. Consider the mature size (2m tall × 1.5m wide) when selecting the site. Step 2 — Support Installation: Install a wall (with or without wire supports) or solid vertical surface before planting. Ensure the support is rated for the mature weight of the plant. Step 3 — Soil Preparation: Dig a hole twice the width and 1.5 times the depth of the rootball. Mix in well-rotted compost and a slow-release fertilizer. Target pH 5.5-7.0. Step 4 — Planting: Plant at the same depth as the container (except clematis, which should be planted deeper). Water thoroughly and firm in gently. Step 5 — Aftercare: Mulch with 5-8 cm of organic matter. Water regularly during the first growing season. Guide initial stems toward the support using soft ties. Protect from slugs and snails in the early stages.

Climate & Hardiness

Spring: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer as new growth begins. Mulch around the base with organic matter. Tie in new stems to supports. Check for winter damage and prune out any dead or damaged growth. Summer: Water regularly , especially during dry spells. Feed monthly with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Continue training and tying in new growth. Deadhead if applicable. Autumn: Reduce watering and feeding as growth slows. Apply a thick mulch to protect roots from winter cold. Check for any pest or disease issues before winter. Winter: Protect from severe frost with horticultural fleece if temperatures drop below -10°C. Check ties and supports. Plan any structural pruning for late winter.

Overwintering Guide

Protect from cold drying winds. Fleece in severe frost. Water in dry winter spells — evergreens transpire year-round.

Propagation

Stem cuttings (primary method): Take semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer (July-August). Select healthy, current season's growth, cutting just below a leaf node. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut end in hormone rooting powder, and insert into a well-drained mix of perlite and peat (50:50). Place in a propagator or cover with a clear plastic bag. Bottom heat of 18-21°C improves success rates. Roots typically develop within 4-8 weeks. Success rate: 60-80%. Layering (alternative): In spring, select a low-growing flexible stem. Wound the underside lightly, pin it to the ground with a wire staple, and cover with soil. Keep moist. Roots develop over 6-12 months. Sever from the parent plant and transplant the following season. Success rate: 80-90%.

Pests & Diseases

Common Problems

Group Disease & Pest Reference (Evergreen Climber)

• Scale insects — brown bumps on stems and leaves; winter oil wash, hand removal
• Sooty mould — black coating from honeydew (scale/aphids); treat the pest, mould cleans off naturally
• Leaf spot — in wet weather; mostly cosmetic; improve circulation
• Cold damage — browning of foliage in severe frost; protect with fleece, prune out damaged growth in spring
• Phytophthora — in waterlogged conditions; ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay without amendment

Training & Pruning

Pruning timing: Prune after flowering or in early spring. Formative pruning: In the first 2-3 years, focus on building a strong framework of main stems by selecting well-placed shoots and tying them to the support. Remove weak, crossing, or badly-placed stems. Maintenance pruning: Once established, shorten side shoots after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new flowering wood. Remove any dead or damaged growth promptly. Thin overcrowded stems to maintain good air circulation. Training: Tie in new growth regularly throughout the growing season using soft garden twine or plant clips. Spread stems evenly across the support for the best coverage and flowering display. Check ties annually and replace any that are too tight.

Pruning Guide — Evergreen Climber

Light trim in spring after last frost. Remove damaged growth. Avoid hard pruning — slow to regrow.

Support Structures

Best support types for Mitraria coccinea: Primary recommendation: A wall (with or without wire supports) or solid vertical surface, sized to accommodate the mature height of 2m and spread of 1.5m. Wire systems: Horizontal galvanized wires at 30-45 cm intervals, tensioned between vine eyes or posts. Ideal for walls and fences. Trellis panels: Choose panels with openings suited to the climbing method — any style, as stems will lean and hook rather than grip. Installation tips: Mount supports at least 5 cm from the wall for air circulation. Use stainless steel or galvanized fittings to prevent rust. Ensure all fixings are rated for the mature weight of the plant, especially in exposed positions.

Support Guide — Evergreen Climber

Sturdy trellis, wire systems, wall-fixed battens. Must support year-round leaf weight inc. snow load.

Wildlife Value

Mitraria coccinea is highly attractive to hummingbirds, which are drawn to the tubular flowers rich in nectar. The plant also benefits bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. The dense foliage provides nesting cover for small birds. Ecosystem services: Provides nectar, pollen, shelter, and nesting sites. The climbing habit creates vertical habitat layers, increasing garden biodiversity.

Landscape Design

Walls and fences: Mitraria coccinea is well-suited to covering walls and fences when provided with suitable support structures. Pergolas and arbors: Suitable for smaller structures, arches, and obelisks. Screening: Creates year-round screening when grown on appropriate support. Effective for disguising unsightly structures, dividing garden rooms, or creating private spaces. Ground cover: Can also be allowed to scramble as ground cover on banks or over low walls. Combine with other climbers for a layered, naturalistic effect.

History & Culture

Mitraria coccinea has been cultivated in gardens since its introduction from Chile. Originally from Chile, it has become valued in horticulture for its ornamental qualities. The genus Mitraria has contributed significantly to the diversity of climbing plants available to gardeners, with species found across multiple continents and climate zones.

Container Growing

Container size: Minimum 45 cm diameter and depth for mature plants. Clematis and smaller climbers can start in 30 cm pots. Use the largest container practical for the space. Growing medium: John Innes No. 3 mixed with 20% perlite provides weight (stability) and good drainage. Add a slow-release fertilizer at planting. Support: Install an obelisk, trellis, or wire frame within or behind the container. Ensure the support is anchored securely. Watering: Container plants dry out much faster than those in the ground. Water daily in summer, checking moisture levels carefully. Mulch the surface to conserve moisture. Overwintering: In cold climates (below USDA zone 8), wrap the container with bubble wrap or hessian to protect roots from freezing. Move to a sheltered position against a warm wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

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