Thunbergia coccinea — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Thunbergia coccinea

Thunbergia Coccinea

Updated · 69 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Thunbergia coccinea, also known as the scarlet clock vine, is a species of flowering plant within the family Acanthaceae.

A note from PlantMom

Scarlet clock vine is fairly resistant to disease and typically does not suffer from illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Scarlet clock vinet is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, like a garden or deck, and does not demand much care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Thunbergia Coccinea.

Light

Scarlet clock vine does best with abundant sunlight and can tolerate locations with only moderate sun. In its native range it performs well in full-day sun, which encourages robust growth. Too much sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light slows its development and results in a weak plant.

Water

The Scarlet Clock Vine, native to tropical Asia, thrives in consistently moist soil and high humidity. It does best with regular watering twice a week. Although it is moderately drought-tolerant, it truly flourishes outdoors when mulch is used to retain moisture. This moisture retention is crucial for vigorous flowering during the growing season.

Temperature

Scarlet clock vine is native to climates where temperatures typically range from 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). These plants favor warm conditions but can adapt to seasonal changes, provided the temperature does not fall below that range.

Fertilizer

The best time to feed a Scarlet clock vine is in early spring, as it breaks dormancy. This encourages overall growth and flower development. Fertilizing improves the foliage, stems, and branches, while encouraging flowers that are bigger, more vibrant, and longer-lasting. It helps transport nutrients from the roots to the blooms and boosts the plant’s health and disease resistance.

Pruning

The Scarlet clock vine, known for its vibrant tubular red flowers, thrives with regular pruning in early spring. By removing dead or weak stems, you can boost growth and promote a fuller, bushier appearance. This practice not only maximizes the number of blooms but also helps maintain the plant's overall health and visual appeal.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Thunbergia
Family
Acanthaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
3.05 m to 9.14 m
Mature Spread
2.13 m to 3.05 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
33.53 cm
Bloom Time
Winter, Spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Harvest Time
Spring, Early summer
Native Area
Nepal, India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Laos, Thailand, China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Scarlet thunbergia
PLATES
Thunbergia coccinea leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Thunbergia coccinea leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Thunbergia coccinea flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Thunbergia coccinea flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Thunbergia coccinea habit
PLATE 05 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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