The fast-growing, tender perennial climbs thirty to forty feet tall with curled tendrils and bright green, heart-shaped leaves. The undersides of the leave have pronounced green veins. The plant flowers prolifically with beautiful red, coral, light pink or white clusters from branching, terminal stalks. It blooms continuously from late summer until the first frost, attracting bees, butterflies, and humming
birds. After flowering, dark seeds that are enclosed in a light tan, papery sheath appear. The plant is a self-climber that clings to walls and wooden or metal trellises with its curled, strong tendrils. Its underground tubers are edible. The plant freezes at thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit but grows back vigorously during late spring and summer from its roots. The underground roots are hardy to twenty degrees. Prune it heavily in spring if it freezes back, or at other times, prune it lightly to train. The plant likes full sun and reflected heat and thrives growing up hot walls. Provide deep irrigation during the hot season to promote growth and vigor. Plant the queen’s wreath in well-draining soil improved with amendments. Use on arbors, fences, and walls as a screening plant in pool areas and other water features. It is native to Mexico from Baja California, Sonora, and Chihuahua down into Oaxaca, Mexico and Central America.