In some areas, vines in the Cobaea genus will propagate so rapidly that they are considered invasive species. In colder climates, however, gardeners can enjoy their beauty and rest assured that wintry temperatures will keep the plant in check.

One popular species in this genus, Cobaea scandens, is commonly known as cathedral bells or the cup and saucer vine. The former name comes from the appearance of the flowers, while the latter is based on how the flowers look in relation to the green calyx.

Cathedral bells are native to Mexico, and can be grown as perennials in areas with warm winters. The Missouri Botanical Garden says they work better as annuals in places with more defined seasons, since the vine will die off after a hard frost.

This vulnerability can actually be beneficial, since cathedral bells can spread rapidly if left unchecked. A vine can easily reach a length of 20 feet, even when grown as an annual. The Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture says cathedral bells can form dense mats, which can smother other vegetation. For this reason, the plant is banned in the nation.

Since cathedral bells won't grow well in the shade, you'll want to find an area of full sunlight to plant them. The Missouri Botanical Garden says the vine will also thrive in areas that are shaded in the afternoon, providing some relief from hot afternoon temperatures.

Seeds for cathedral bells can be planted in well-drained soil or started indoors several weeks before the last anticipated spring frost. Marie Iannotti, writing for the home design site The Spruce, says seedlings for the plant are rarely available due to their rapid growth. The vines will get tangled if they grow too close together, so it can be useful to grow them in separate containers.

The seeds should be placed vertically in the soil, with the longest edge pointing down. If placed flat, the seeds will be more susceptible to rot. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.

Cathedral bells need to grow on a trellis, fence, or other structure. The Cornell University Cooperative Extension says the vines should be trained to start climbing their way up this support.

The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Iannotti says you shouldn't use too much fertilizer, since this will promote vine growth more than flower growth.

Flowers have a pale green appearance when they first appear. Their scent isn't too appealing at first, but grows more pleasant as the flower develops and takes on a white or purple hue.

If you want to keep the spread of the vine, pinch the stem once the plant has reached the desired height. This will cause the vine to branch out and become bushy.

Cathedral bells are not affected by too many diseases or pests, but you may notice aphids or spider mites on them. These creatures can be removed with an insecticidal soap or by simply hosing off the plants.