Bleeding Heart Vine Clerodendrum thomsoniae
ABOUT
The Clerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as the bleeding heart vine, presents a captivating display of vibrant color and unique flower structure that draws the attention of onlookers. This appealing vine produces flowers characterized by their distinct heart-shaped form. The flowers typically feature a base color of pure white, which serves as a calyx enveloping the central bloom. Peering out from this white backdrop is a striking display of rich crimson, blood-red petals, which give the impression of a heart that has been outlined or even punctured, leading to its common name that hints at a bleeding heart. The vine itself is lush, with broad leaves that are generally a deep green hue, creating a dense backdrop for the vivid floral display. The foliage is smooth and occasionally has a slightly glossy finish, offering an elegant canvas against which the stunning blossoms can shine. The bleeding heart vine grows in a twining manner, often seeking out support to climb and showcase its floral beauty more effectively. The overall appearance of this plant is one of exotic splendor and romantic allure, with its bold, contrasting colors and heart-like flowers drawing considerable attention in any garden or indoor setting where it is cultivated. It is beloved for its ornamental value and the dramatic flair it contributes to the spaces it inhabits.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Bleeding Heart Vine, Glory Bower, Bagflower, Beauty Bush
Common names
Clerodendrum thomsoniae var. thomsoniae, Clerodendrum thomsoniae var. delectum, Volkameria thomsoniae.
ToxicityTo humans
Bleeding Heart Vine is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant may cause mild symptoms, which can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth irritation. While serious complications are rare, it is still advisable to keep the Bleeding Heart Vine out of reach of children who might be tempted to ingest the colorful berries or leaves.
To pets
Bleeding Heart Vine is also considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets, much like in humans. If ingested by pets such as dogs or cats, it may cause gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. While the plant is not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and stress for your pet, and veterinary attention may be required if symptoms persist or are severe. It is wise to prevent pets from having access to the plant to avoid any potential health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
West Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Clerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as Bleeding Heart Vine, is prized for its ornamental value, with vibrant red and white heart-shaped flowers adding beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant's showy blossoms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, which help in pollination and benefit the ecological system.
- Shade Provider: As a climbing vine, it can provide a natural green canopy when grown over pergolas or trellises, offering shade and cooler areas in gardens.
- Privacy Screen: When grown along fences or walls, Bleeding Heart Vine can act as a living curtain, providing privacy and greenery.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, Clerodendrum thomsoniae plants are used in traditional ceremonies or given as gifts, symbolizing luck and appreciation.
- Habitat Enrichment: It can be used to create more diverse and layered landscaping by serving as an understory in tall gardens, thus contributing to habitat enrichment for various organisms.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Clerodendrum thomsoniae has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Analgesic: Some sources suggest that compounds found in the plant may have pain-relieving effects.
- Antipyretic: There are indications that extracts from Clerodendrum thomsoniae might be used to reduce fever in traditional medicinal practices.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as bleeding-heart vine, can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, with the flower bracts potentially providing a range of colors from soft pinks to deep reds.
- In some cultures, the stem fibers of the bleeding-heart vine are utilized in the construction of small crafts or as a binding material due to their flexibility and strength.
- The vibrant flowers of the bleeding-heart vine can serve as an indicator for changes in environmental conditions, as they may change color or blooming patterns in response to shifts in climate.
- This plant can be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant growth patterns, specifically vine behavior and climbing mechanisms, to students and plant enthusiasts.
- Due to its intricate and showy flowers, the bleeding-heart vine is suitable for use in ornamental displays at events such as weddings, garden parties, or as part of floral arrangements.
- The leaves of the bleeding-heart vine can be used in crafts, like leaf printing or nature-inspired art projects, where their shape and unique aesthetic can be showcased.
- In butterfly gardens, the bleeding-heart vine can act as a nectar-rich attractant, helping to support local butterfly populations and increase biodiversity.
- The fast-growing nature of the bleeding-heart vine makes it an effective privacy screen when grown alongside fences or in front of unsightly structures in the garden.
- For those interested in photography, the distinct appearance of the bleeding-heart vine provides excellent subject matter for botanical and macro photography.
- The bleeding-heart vine can serve as an ecological teaching tool by offering a habitat for a variety of insects, demonstrating the importance of plant-insect interactions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe bleeding heart vine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe bleeding heart vine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Love: Bleeding Heart Vine, which Clerodendrum thomsoniae is commonly known as, symbolizes enduring love due to its heart-shaped flowers that seem to express romantic love and long-lasting bonds.
- Tropical Beauty: Native to tropical West Africa, the Bleeding Heart Vine's lush appearance represents the beauty and vitality of tropical regions, celebrating the exuberance of life in those climates.
- Attraction and Magnetism: The striking appearance of its bright red and white flowers often stands for attraction and magnetism, mirroring the way the plant draws the eye and the heart towards it.
- Connection with Nature: As a climbing plant, the Bleeding Heart Vine suggests a connection to nature, growth, and the idea of reaching towards the sunlight, symbolizing personal growth and the pursuit of natural harmony.
- Femininity and Grace: The delicate and ornate flowers of the Bleeding Heart Vine can symbolize femininity and grace, reflecting the soft, yet strong nature of womanhood.
WaterBleeding heart vine requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It is best to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week, depending on temperature and humidity. Ideally, provide about 1 gallon of water to the plant, ensuring even distribution around the base and avoiding overhead watering to reduce leaf wetness and potential fungus issues. During winter, reduce watering frequency to when the top couple of inches of soil are dry, as the plant goes into a dormant phase and requires less moisture.
LightBleeding heart vine flourishes in bright, indirect light but can tolerate direct morning sunlight. The ideal spot would be near an east or north-facing window where it gets plenty of light without the harsh midday sun. Avoid placing your bleeding heart vine in full afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureBleeding heart vine prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F but should not be exposed to temperatures below that as it can lead to damage or even kill the plant. Keep the plant away from drafts and cold windows during the winter to maintain a stable temperature environment.
PruningPruning bleeding heart vine is necessary to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and cut back up to one-third of the vine to promote fresh growth. Pruning can be done again after flowering to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBleeding Heart Vine prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. A mix containing peat, perlite, and compost is ideal for its growth.
RepottingBleeding Heart Vine should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingBleeding Heart Vine thrives best in high humidity conditions, around 60% - 80%, similar to its native tropical environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for Bleeding Heart Vine.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds for Bleeding Heart Vine.
Hardiness zone
9-12 USDA
Life cycleClerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as bleeding heart vine, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, typically in the spring or early summer. The seedling stage is followed by the development of a vigorous, climbing vine if the environment is conducive, providing it with ample sunlight and humidity. As the vine matures, it develops opposite, heart-shaped leaves and woody stems that can support its growth as it climbs using tendrils. The plant reaches maturity when it produces its characteristic white and red flowers, which attract pollinators, usually within a year of planting. After pollination, the bleeding heart vine produces small, round fruits which can disperse seeds for new plant growth. The plant is a perennial, so it can survive for several years, going through repeated flowering and fruiting cycles during the warmer months, or year-round in tropical conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Clerodendrum thomsoniae, commonly known as bleeding heart vine, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. To do this, take a cutting of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length from a healthy parent plant during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should include several leaf nodes. Strip the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one or two nodes are buried where roots can develop. The pot with the cutting should be placed in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, the cutting should start to form roots. After the roots are well-established, the new plant can be transferred to a larger pot or to the garden.
