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Bleeding Heart Vine – Clerodendrum thomsoniae
Care Guides

Plant : Bleeding Heart Vine

Clerodendrum thomsoniae

OrnamentalPet-Friendly

Bleeding Heart Vine (Clerodendrum thomsoniae) is a stunning tropical climber prized for its pendulous blooms featuring contrasting red calyxes and pure white petals. With its bold and dramatic flowers appearing almost continually in warm climates, it’s a favorite climber for arbors, trellises, and conservatories where it can show off its cascading beauty.

Plant Care Essentials:

Light Requirements

Full sun to partial shade

Water Scheduling

Moderate

Growth Habit

Fast

Temperature

15–30 °C

Plant Profile:

Scientific Name:
Clerodendrum thomsoniae
Family:
Lamiaceae
Plant Type:
Ornamental
Origin:
West Africa
Size:
3–10m
Growth Rate:
Fast
Light Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade
Watering Needs:
Moderate
Temperature Tolerance:
15–30 °C
Maintenance:
Medium
Flower Color:
Red calyx with white corolla
Flowering Season:
Spring to autumn
Drought Tolerant:
No
Tropical:
Yes
Indoor:
Yes
Has Fruits:
No
Edible Fruit:
No
Poisonous to Pets:
No

Care Instructions:

This vine forms twining stems that can be trained up supports or allowed to sprawl as a trailing specimen. Its glossy green foliage provides a rich backdrop for the spectacular blooms, which consist of a bright red star‑shaped calyx housing a pure white tubular corolla. In ideal conditions, flowers are abundant and attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees.

Light

Bleeding Heart Vine thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it tolerates some shade, more sunlight encourages stronger flowering and sturdier growth. In very hot climates, protection from the intense midday sun helps prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place near a bright window with indirect light.

Water

Keep soil consistently moist during the growing and flowering seasons, but avoid water‑logged conditions. Water moderately—allow the top layer of soil to become slightly dry before the next irrigation. Reduce frequency during cooler months when growth slows.

Soil

Use rich, fertile, well‑draining soil that retains moisture without becoming soggy. A mix of garden loam, compost, and coarse sand or perlite works well. Good drainage helps prevent root rot and supports vigorous root growth.

Temperature

This tropical climber prefers warm temperatures between 18–30 °C. It does not tolerate frost; in cooler climates, it should be grown in containers and brought indoors or into a greenhouse during cold weather.

Humidity

Moderate to high humidity promotes healthy foliage and flowering. In dry indoor environments, increase humidity with pebble trays or occasional misting, ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Fertilizer

Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Reducing fertilizer in autumn and winter allows the plant to rest.

Best Placement Ideas

  • Trellises, arbors, or pergolas
  • Patio containers with climbing support
  • Conservatories and sunrooms
  • Balcony or terrace green screens

Common Issues

  • Root rot from overwatering
  • Leaf drop in cold drafts
  • Reduced flowering in low light
  • Spider mites in dry conditions

Things to Watch Out For

  • Protect from frost and cold winds
  • Avoid waterlogging soil
  • Space for climbing support
  • Yellowing leaves from inadequate light

Propagation Tips

Propagate Bleeding Heart Vine by semi‑hardwood cuttings in spring or early summer. Take 10–15 cm healthy shoots, remove lower leaves, and plant in moist, well‑drained soil. Keep cuttings warm and lightly shaded with consistent moisture until roots form. pH‑balanced soil and humidity trays improve success rates.

Maintenance Tips

Prune lightly after flowering to shape the vine and encourage fresh growth. Remove weak or damaged stems early in spring. Repot container plants every 2–3 years to refresh soil and support vigorous growth. During dormancy, reduce watering and feeding.

Did You Know?

Despite its common name, this plant is not related to the classic “bleeding heart” flower used in temperate borders. It is native to West Africa and was introduced into European horticulture in the 19th century, where its striking bicolor blossoms quickly made it a garden favorite. The genus name Clerodendrum means “chance tree” in Greek, referencing its unpredictable flowering.

Care Guides