Eccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as the Chilean glory flower or flame vine, is a fast-growing perennial vine native to Chile. Belonging to the family Bignoniaceae, this plant is celebrated for its striking clusters of tubular flowers that bloom in vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow. The vine can reach heights of up to 10 feet, boasting slender stems adorned with small, paired leaves.
Chilean glory flower thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. While it is a hardy plant capable of withstanding drought conditions once established, it requires regular watering during its initial growth period. Propagation can be achieved through seeds or stem cuttings.
Because of its climbing nature, Eccremocarpus scaber is often used as an ornamental plant on trellises, fences, walls, or other support structures. Its vivid flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a delightful addition to any garden landscape.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Eccremocarpus scaber has traditionally been utilized in Chilean medicine to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis, thanks to alkaloids found in the leaves.
In summary, Eccremocarpus scaber is a stunning flowering vine that offers both aesthetic beauty and medicinal benefits, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a blend of visual appeal and functionality in their plants.
The Chilean glory flower is resistant to disease and typically isn’t prone to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants usually don’t require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. The Chilean glory flower is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, like a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive care experience.
How to keep Eccremocarpus Scaber.
Light
The chilean glory flower does best in plenty of sunlight but can tolerate moderate shade. Native to sun-drenched habitats, it takes advantage of those conditions for optimal growth. However, if the light is either too weak or too intense, its vigor may be reduced, which can affect its overall health and ability to bloom.
Water
The Chilean glory flower, native to arid regions, is drought-tolerant and requires weekly watering to prevent over-saturation. As an evergreen climber, it thrives outdoors, climbing towards light with minimal rainfall for moisture.
Temperature
The Chilean glory flower is native to habitats where temperatures range from 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 ℃). It prospers in those conditions, so it's important to maintain a comparable environment, making seasonal adjustments when necessary.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing the Chilean glory flower is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and then monthly until early summer. Fertilizer promotes attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.
Pruning
The Chilean glory flower is known for its vibrant tubular blooms and climbing growth habit. To maintain its health and appearance, prune in early spring to remove any dead growth and stimulate the development of new shoots. Thinning the plant will also enhance air circulation, which helps reduce the risk of disease. For rejuvenation, cut older stems down to ground level to promote healthier growth and lead to more impressive blooms.
Pot & Repot
Repot your Chilean glory flower every 2-3 years in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Choose a medium-sized pot with good drainage. After repotting, place the plant in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture to aid its recovery. With the right care, this flowering vine will flourish and produce beautiful tubular blooms.
Toxicity
Glory Flower is not considered toxic. It has no known harmful effects on people or pets and is generally safe as an indoor or outdoor houseplant.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Vine
- Life Cycle
- Perennial, Annual, Biennial
- Genus
- Eccremocarpus
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-10
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.83 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Orange, Red
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer, Fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Fall, Early winter
- Native Area
- Peru
Other names.
Reader questions.
How should I water my Chilean glory flower in the best way?
To promote excellent root development, it's best to place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying water directly onto the leaves, as they require more watering when exposed to direct sunlight outdoors. Using bubblers or soaker hoses can help moisten the roots, and you can also use soaker hoses to ensure thorough watering when adding or removing plants. Be sure to drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is recommended to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether the Chilean glory flower is potted or in the ground, remember that it prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.
Why should I add fertilizer to my Chilean glory flower?
To help your Chilean glory flower produce beautiful blooms, it's important to fertilize it. The best time to do this is in early spring, as it will ensure excellent flowers during that season. Additionally, fertilizing provides the flower with energy that can be stored in the ground during dormant growth phases. By giving your Chilean glory flower extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, it will have more energy to use once active growth resumes.
How much sunlight does the Chilean glory flower need to grow?
Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants are well-suited to areas with strong and direct sunlight, as they need this light to flourish. In their natural habitats, they tend to grow in open fields or along forest edges, where they can enjoy abundant sunlight all day long.
What temperature is best for Chilean glory flower?
Plants are affected by colder temperatures because they match the temperature of the air around them. While exposure to the sun can warm them up, this is not the case in winter. The Chilean glory flower thrives in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85℉ (21 to 30℃). It can tolerate lower temperatures such as 20 to 30℉ (-6 to 0℃), or even 15℉ (-10℃) for a short duration, but prolonged exposure can cause damage from frost. To ensure their well-being, maintain maximum temperatures between 70 to 85℉ (21 to 30℃) and provide occasional water sprays and shade to prevent wilting.
What should I do if I give too much/not enough water to Chilean glory flower?
When a Chilean glory flower is overwatered, it may display yellowing, wilting leaves that eventually drop off. The plant might also appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. To address these issues, it's best to adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also occur due to under watering, resulting in crispy, dry leaves, while overwatered leaves will be wilted and soft. When the soil is dry and regular watering is insufficient, provide a thorough watering in a timely manner. Sufficient water will help the Chilean glory flower recover, but the plant may still have dry, yellow leaves for a few days due to root damage. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. Indoors, it's important to check the moisture levels in the pot for the Chilean glory flower and avoid overwatering. Look out for black spots, and if present, allow the soil to dry by withholding water for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you notice discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. Prevent root rot by avoiding excessively soggy soil. When planting the Chilean glory flower outdoors, dig a little deeper and check the soil moisture level with your fingers. If the soil is too dry, it indicates underwatering, and adequate watering is necessary for the plant's recovery.
When should I fertilize my Chilean glory flower to get the best results?
To ensure effective use of fertilizer, it is important to time the application correctly for Chilean glory flower. If fertilizer is used too early, while the flower is still dormant, it will be ineffective and washed away by rainwater, leading to waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be in early spring, followed by monthly applications until early summer.
What happens if the Chilean glory flower doesn't get enough sunlight?
Tropical ornamental plants that need full sun may face issues if they don't receive enough sunlight. They might become leggy and weak, and their leaves could turn yellow or pale. Furthermore, they may stop producing flowers. Ultimately, if these plants continue to lack the required amount of direct sunlight, there is a possibility that they may die.
Should I change the temperature for the Chilean glory flower when it is growing at different stages?
To ensure successful growth of the Chilean glory flower, it is important to research and maintain the right temperature. Some growers may choose to lower the plants' temperature during the growing season to save on HVAC costs. However, it is crucial to understand that temperature can impact flowering, pest management, and plant quality. During winter, some species of the Chilean glory flower may enter a dormant state and stop growing. As the season changes and the temperature rises, the base temperature increases, resulting in faster growth. Species that naturally thrive in warmer environments have higher optimal temperatures compared to those that prefer cooler climates. When exposed to cool temperatures, the seeds of the Chilean glory flower may experience decreased uniformity and delayed growth. Lowering the temperature during flowering may be beneficial, but it should not be done during other phases. Cooler night temperatures also require less watering, so the irrigation should be adjusted accordingly.
How frequently should I water my Chilean glory flower?
To care for Chilean glory flowers, it's important to water them deeply and infrequently. This is especially crucial if they are planted in pots, as the soil in pots dries out quickly. To determine when to water, check the soil and water when the top 2-3 inches are dry. In colder regions, water every 3 to 5 days, preferably in the morning. During hot days, check the soil moisture daily to prevent it from drying out. If you have a garden, water once a week in hot climates. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. In sandy soil, water more frequently, while in clay soil, water less frequently to avoid root rot. Lastly, add mulch around the plants outdoors to conserve water. Keep track of watering dates to ensure the plants are properly hydrated. Pay attention to drooping leaves, as they may indicate a need for water.
When is not a good time to add fertilizer to my Chilean glory flower?
To ensure optimal growth, avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen for the Chilean glory flower. Excessive nitrogen can result in an abundance of leaves but few blooms. Instead, opt for fertilizers with lower levels of nitrogen relative to other nutrients. During the early autumn, refrain from fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive growth right before winter. Similarly, avoid fertilizing the Chilean glory flower during hot and dry periods. Dry soil does not effectively deliver the fertilizer, and stimulating growth during this time may require additional water that may not be available. It is advisable to apply fertilizer earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Lastly, be cautious about unintentionally over-fertilizing nearby plants or lawns. The Chilean glory flower can absorb fertilizer applied to its surroundings, potentially resulting in a double-dose.
What happens if the Chilean glory flower gets too much sunlight?
Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require ample direct sunlight, but excessive exposure to intense sunlight can harm them. Prolonged periods of direct sunlight can cause sunburned leaves or the development of unsightly brown spots. Additionally, if the soil dries out too rapidly in full sun, these plants may become dehydrated.
How can I keep the Chilean glory flower warm when it's cold outside?
To help the Chilean glory flower withstand colder temperatures, stop fertilizing it to prevent new growth. This will allow the existing flowers to adapt and become hardier. To provide warmth, consider constructing cages or trellises around the plant. Another option is to use heat mats, which can gently warm the soil and maintain the ideal temperature range for the Chilean glory flower.