Thunbergia alata 'Sunny Brownie' (Dark Red Black-Eyed Susan Vine)

Thunbergia alata 'Sunny Brownie' is a warm-season annual vine that adds rich, moody color to trellises, fences, containers, and hanging baskets. Unlike the classic orange Black-Eyed Susan Vine, 'Sunny Brownie' produces velvety, deep terracotta to brick-red flowers with the characteristic dark chocolate-black center, creating a sophisticated palette that pairs beautifully with warm bronze, copper, and gold tones in the garden. It twines vigorously and can reach 6 to 8 feet in a single season.

On the Oregon coast, 'Sunny Brownie' benefits from the long, mild growing season. It thrives in full sun with consistent moisture and prefers a warm, sheltered spot where it can establish quickly after transplanting. Provide a trellis, wire, or post for it to climb. It will fill a vertical structure rapidly and flower continuously from early summer until frost. In containers, it cascades beautifully over the edges or spirals up a central support.

This vine attracts hummingbirds and pollinators throughout its long bloom season. Deadheading is not required but can encourage more branching and additional flower production. Plant after the last frost and keep well-watered during establishment.