Bleeding Heart Vine

Plant Bio

Clerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as bleeding heart vine or glory bower, is a striking tropical vine appreciated for its attractive foliage and showy clusters of flowers. Native to West Africa, it belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is popular as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor settings. Here’s a general description:

Foliage: The foliage of Clerodendrum thomsoniae consists of glossy, dark green, ovate-shaped leaves arranged oppositely along the stems. The leaves have prominent veins and may reach lengths of 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters). They provide an attractive backdrop for the plant’s striking flowers.
Flowers: One of the main attractions of Clerodendrum thomsoniae is its unique flowers, which appear in clusters known as cymes. Each cluster consists of numerous tubular, white flowers with red calyces that resemble hearts, giving rise to the common name “bleeding heart vine.” The flowers typically bloom throughout the warm months, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds.
Growth Habit: As a vine, Clerodendrum thomsoniae exhibits a twining growth habit, climbing and clinging to support structures such as trellises, arbors, or fences. It can also be trained as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or containers. With proper care and support, it can reach lengths of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) or more.

Care Guide for Clerodendrum Thomson:

Light: Provide bright, indirect light for Clerodendrum thomsoniae to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering. While it can tolerate partial shade, it thrives in locations with plenty of filtered sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause leaf burn.
Temperature: Maintain moderate to warm temperatures for Clerodendrum thomsoniae, ideally between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the day and above 60°F (15°C) at night. Protect the plant from cold drafts, sudden temperature fluctuations, and frost, as it is sensitive to cold temperatures and may suffer damage.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, allowing the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water the plant thoroughly when the topsoil feels dry to the touch, ensuring that excess water drains away freely from the container. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when growth slows down.
Humidity: Clerodendrum thomsoniae appreciates high humidity levels, similar to its native tropical habitat. Increase humidity around the plant by misting the foliage regularly, placing a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the container, or using a room humidifier. Maintain humidity levels above 50% if possible to prevent leaf desiccation and promote healthy growth.