Moth plant
Also known as
Cruel plant, Cruel vine, White bladderflower, Latex plant
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Moth plant
Araujia sericifera, commonly called moth plant or cruel vine, is a vigorous, twining perennial climber in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) native to southeastern South America. It bears opposite, softly pubescent gray‑green leaves and summer‑to‑autumn clusters of starry white to pale pink flowers that release a sweet night fragrance. The floral structure can temporarily trap visiting moths, inspiring its common name. After pollination, large, pear‑shaped pods form and eventually split to release numerous silky‑tufted seeds that travel widely on wind. Stems and pods exude a sticky, milky latex that can irritate skin and eyes and gum up tools. Highly adaptable, it thrives in well‑drained soils from coastal scrub to disturbed sites, tolerating drought and light frost. In gardens it provides rapid screening, but it is invasive in many Mediterranean‑climate regions, where it smothers vegetation and self‑seeds freely. Regular pruning, pod removal, and containment are essential where spread is a concern.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Moth plant
Water
Water deeply but infrequently. In‑ground plants typically need around 25 mm (1 inch) per week in summer, adjusted for rainfall and soil type. Allow the top 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) of soil to dry between waterings. For containers, water when the mix is 50–60% dry, then irrigate until 10–15% drains from the pot. Reduce markedly in winter, keeping the root zone just shy of dry. Avoid chronic saturation—this species dislikes waterlogged soils and performs best with sharp drainage.
Light
Provide full sun (6+ hours) for best flowering and compact growth. It tolerates light to moderate shade, but low light reduces bloom and encourages legginess. In hot inland climates, light afternoon shade helps reduce stress and prolong flowers. Indoors, place near a bright south or west window or supplement with 12–14 hours of strong grow lighting. Rotate plants periodically for even coverage of the support.
Nutrients
Feed lightly—this species grows vigorously in moderately fertile soils and becomes overly leafy with high nitrogen. For in‑ground plants, incorporate compost in spring and apply a sparse dose of slow‑release, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10). Container plants respond well to a half‑strength, balanced liquid feed monthly during active growth, with a slight potassium emphasis to support flowering. Do not fertilize in winter. Always water before and after feeding to prevent root burn and flush salts periodically.
Temperature
Best growth occurs between 15–28°C. Established plants tolerate brief dips to about −3 to −5°C, though repeated hard freezes can defoliate or kill top growth. In cool regions, mulch the crown and shelter from cold winds; in containers, maintain minimums above 5–7°C and keep media on the dry side in cold spells. Heat tolerant if soil moisture and airflow are adequate. Outdoors suits USDA Zones roughly 8b–11.
