Camptosema grandiflora (Crista-De-Galo)

Camptosema grandiflora, commonly known as Dwarf Red Jade Vine, Brazilian Red Jade Vine, or Crista-de-Galo, is a spectacular flowering vine admired for its brilliant red blooms and greater cold tolerance than the tropical Red Jade Vine, Mucuna benetti..

This vigorous evergreen climber, native to Brazil, belongs to the legume family and develops strong twining stems. Although often called a dwarf red jade vine, it can become a substantial plant when established. Its lush green foliage remains attractive even when not in bloom.

From fall through winter, the vine produces long, pendulous racemes of fiery red to orange-red flowers reminiscent of those of Mucuna benettii. The spectacular blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds and are most effective when displayed overhead, allowing the clusters to hang naturally.

Camptosema grandiflora grows best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with regular moisture. Once established, it can tolerate short dry periods and light frost. Adequate feeding and occasional pruning after flowering encourage vigorous growth and abundant blooming. Considerably more cold tolerant than Mucuna benettii, this species has become a favorite among gardeners who admire jade vines but live outside truly tropical climates.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 9b-11. Established plants can tolerate brief temperature drops to approximately 25-28F, although young growth may be damaged by frost.