Pervasive throughout Australia and well-adapted to the Bay Area, Hardenbergia violacea is a handsome evergreen vine that climbs by twining stems to 12-16′. It features egg-shaped to narrow lance-shaped leaves. It flowers from late winter through early spring with beautiful, Wisteria-like, purple blossoms. This hardy plant performs best in full sun or light shade in hotter, inland Bay Area locations. It even does well in heavy clay soil if it drains. Once established, this very handsome vine requires little water. Regular pruning and care can also reinvigorate older plants.