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Description
Clerodendrum Thomsoniae, also known as the bleeding heart vine, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is native to West Africa and is now grown as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant produces beautiful white and red flowers that resemble a bleeding heart, hence the name bleeding heart vine. The flowers are arranged in clusters and bloom from late spring to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Clerodendrum |
Appearance
The bleeding heart vine can grow up to 20 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern on the stem. The flowers of the bleeding heart vine are the main attraction. The flowers are white and have a red calyx that surrounds the base of the flower. The calyx is what gives the flower its bleeding heart appearance. The flowers are about 1 inch in length and are arranged in clusters that are about 6 inches long.
Care Guide
The bleeding heart vine is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity. Here are some tips on how to care for your bleeding heart vine:
- Water: The bleeding heart vine requires regular watering. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your bleeding heart vine once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The bleeding heart vine prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The bleeding heart vine prefers partial shade to full sun. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The bleeding heart vine is hardy in USDA zones 9 and 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bleeding heart vine is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep your plant healthy and well-maintained. Use insecticidal soap to control pests and remove any infected leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The bleeding heart vine is native to West Africa and grows in tropical forests. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. The plant is now grown as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world, including the United States, where it is grown as a houseplant or in a greenhouse.
Questions and Answers
- Q: Can the bleeding heart vine be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, the bleeding heart vine can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 and 10. It prefers partial shade to full sun and requires protection from frost. - Q: How often should I fertilize my bleeding heart vine?
A: Fertilize your bleeding heart vine once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. - Q: What should I do if my bleeding heart vine is infected with pests or diseases?
A: Use insecticidal soap to control pests and remove any infected leaves to prevent the spread of disease. - Q: Can I propagate my bleeding heart vine?
A: Yes, the bleeding heart vine can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Clerodendrum bungei
- Clerodendrum paniculatum
- Clerodendrum trichotomum
References
- “Clerodendrum thomsoniae – Bleeding Heart Vine.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b592.
- “Growing Bleeding Heart Vine Indoors: Care Guide.” The Spruce. Accessed 15 September 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-bleeding-heart-vine-indoors-1902430.
- “Clerodendrum thomsoniae.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 15 September 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/clerodendrum-thomsoniae.html.
