Stictocardia

[spockvr6]

I planted a small Stictocardia last April.  I put it at the base of a concrete light pole in the hopes it would eventually climb up and cover the pole (with some training on my end).  

Well, for the first few months in the ground this plant took off like a rocket!  It really exploded and sent out numerous new vines.  And, the leaves got huge!  It also flowered a bit as well (which was one of my reasons for wanting this plant).

Well, for the past couple of months, this plant seems to have stalled.  It had added much less growth than expected and has not flowered at all.  Some new leaves are also alot smaller than before.  And, it just doesnt look as "vigorous".

I cant help but wonder, since this change in growth occurred during the warmest part of the year, if this plant doesnt like full summer heat and sun?   I thought this plant was fairly tropical in nature and would thrive in the hottest part of the year.   Perhaps it should and there is something else going on?