Cup of Gold at Akaka falls

 

I saw this Cup of Gold vine growing over a hillside at Akaka Falls. I mean, it was HUGE. The flower itself can be 5-7 inches across and 9 inches deep. It is invasive in Hawaii, and it's easy to see how it can smother everything in it's path. It had literally covered a hillside. I had wanted to give this plant a try for years, but after reading about it, I decided that it would probably get too big. Was I ever right! I did read that it can survive down to 20 degrees. Maybe with protection.... Naw, it would probably turn out to be another kudzu.