Family: Verbenaceae

Sandpaper vine is a woody climber/subshrub with sprays of purple flowers.

Its native range is from the Caribbean down to Brasil. Both sides of the leaves are rough like sandpaper, hence the common name. They are used in some parts of the world to polish metal. A semi-deciduous tree, many of the leaves will drop before Spring flowering resulting in a fantastic show of 1000’s of violet flowers. The actual flower lasts only a few days, but the calyx (also violet) persists long after. Eventually, the calyx will drop, spinning like helicopter blades as it falls to the ground. The other common name is helicopter plant. The profusion of flowers attracts pollinators.

Vines can grow out of control, even pono one; take caution when planting this woody vine. Sandpaper vine is perfect for planting on an arbor, fence, or gazebo. Propagation is mostly by cuttings, as seeds are rarely produced.

Plant Uses:

• Bonsai
• Container plant
• Hedge
• Lei flower
• Medicinal
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening
• Bonzai

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers