Chilean Glory Flower Eccremocarpus scaber
ABOUT
The Eccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as the Chilean glory flower, is a vibrant and eye-catching climbing plant that is adorned with a profusion of tubular flowers. These blossoms showcase an array of colors, predominantly in a palette featuring shades of orange, red, yellow, and sometimes a combination that gives a flaming appearance. The flowers dangle in clusters, offering a rich display of color. The foliage consists of small, green leaves that are pinnate, meaning they have multiple leaflets arranged on either side of a common axis. The overall effect is a delicate and feathery canvas of green that beautifully contrasts with the bright hues of the blooms. This climbing plant often uses tendrils to grasp and twine around any available support, allowing it to grow in a somewhat sprawling fashion as it reaches outwards. The visual impact of the Chilean glory flower makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to trellises, fences, and other garden structures. The appearance of the plant is both alluring and exotic, with a lively presence that can enliven any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Bignoniaceae.
Synonyms
Chilean Glory Flower, Chilean Glory Vine, Glory Vine, Beauty Vine.
Common names
Eccremocarpus scaber var. calycinus, Calampelis scaber, Eccremocarpus luteus, Trophis scandens.
ToxicityTo humans
Eccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as Chilean glory flower, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information regarding its toxicity, and it does not appear on most lists of poisonous plants. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning are generally associated with it. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may occur, and it is always prudent to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to potential unknown toxicities.
To pets
Chilean glory flower, the common name for Eccremocarpus scaber, is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is a lack of substantial evidence indicating that this plant poses a significant risk of poisoning to animals such as dogs and cats. Nonetheless, ingestion of any non-food plants can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, so it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming this or any ornamental plant. If a pet does ingest part of the plant and shows symptoms of distress, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
3 feet (1 meter)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Chile
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - Eccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as Chilean glory flower, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its vibrant, tubular flowers that come in shades of orange, red, or yellow.
- Easy to Grow - It is a low-maintenance vine that can quickly cover fences or trellises, ideal for gardeners looking for easy-care plants.
- Attracts Wildlife - The Chilean glory flower attracts pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Fast Growing - It grows rapidly, providing quick coverage for garden structures or bare spots.
- Drought-Tolerant - Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in drier climates.
- Seasonal Interest - With its prolonged flowering period from spring to fall, it offers seasonal interest in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chilean Glory Flower as a Textile Dye: The vibrant flowers of Chilean Glory Flower can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, imparting a range of hues from yellows to greens depending on the mordant used.
- Insect Attraction for Pollination Education: This plant can be utilized in educational settings as a live example to demonstrate pollination, attracting hummingbirds and beneficial insects.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried, the tubular flowers of Chilean Glory Flower add an exotic touch to bouquets and decorative floral arrangements.
- Cultural Symbol: In some cultures, its distinctive blossoms may be used as a symbol in ceremonies and festive decorations.
- Ornamental Cover for Unsightly Structures: Its climbing nature makes it an excellent choice for camouflaging fences, walls, or other less attractive structures in the garden.
- Garden Design Teaching Tool: Due to its vigorous climbing habit and vibrant colors, the plant can be used in teaching garden design and plant training techniques.
- Photography Prop: Chilean Glory Flower's unique appearance makes it a popular subject or background for garden and nature photography.
- Children's Garden Project: The fast-growing and easy-to-care-for nature of the Chilean Glory Flower makes it suitable for children's gardening projects to teach about plant growth and care.
- Ecological Studies: It can be involved in studies related to plant invasiveness and its effects on local ecosystems, as it is considered invasive in certain areas.
- Companion Plant: When planted alongside vegetable gardens, the Chilean Glory Flower may help in attracting pollinators, increasing the yield of crops that depend on insect pollination.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chilean glory flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chilean glory flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty in Adversity: Eccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as "Chilean Glory Flower," often symbolizes the ability to maintain beauty and grace even in difficult conditions, as it can thrive in various environments that may be considered challenging for other plants.
- Resilience: The Chilean Glory Flower represents resilience and the ability to bounce back or adapt, given its tenacity and robust growth habits in the wild.
- Passionate Love: With its bright, fiery flowers, the Chilean Glory Flower is also seen as a symbol of passionate love and ardent affection, often used to convey intensity in romantic relationships.
- Cherishing Connection: Its climbing nature alludes to the idea of clinging or holding on, which can indicate the importance of cherishing and maintaining connections with loved ones or personal beliefs.
WaterChilean glory flower should be watered regularly to maintain moist soil, especially during the growing and flowering season. It's advisable to water the plant thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before the next watering. Depending on climate conditions, this may equate to approximately 1-2 gallons per week for outdoor plants. It's important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. During winter months, reduce watering to encourage dormancy.
LightChilean glory flower thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location for the Chilean glory flower would be a spot where it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily, but is shielded from the intense midday sun, which can sometimes be too harsh. This climber appreciates a bright spot that simulates its natural, sunny habitat.
TemperatureChilean glory flower prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 50°F and 75°F for optimal growth. This plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 40°F, making it suitable for outdoor growing in USDA zones 8-11. To ensure healthy growth, protect it from frost and extreme cold, which could be detrimental.
PruningPruning the Chilean glory flower is essential for maintaining shape and encouraging bushier growth. Prune in early spring, removing any dead or damaged stems and spent flowers to promote new growth. The best time to prune is after the risk of frost has passed. Pruning can be performed annually or as needed to control the plant's size and shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChilean Glory Flower thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. For the best soil mix, combine two parts peat-free compost with one part perlite or grit for improved drainage. This blend ensures that roots have access to nutrients while preventing waterlogging, essential for the health of the vine.
RepottingChilean Glory Flower generally doesn't require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years. It's crucial to repot if the plant becomes root-bound or the soil seems depleted. Spring is the ideal time for repotting this fast-growing climber to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingChilean Glory Flower prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity. For optimal growth, aim for humidity levels between 50% and 70%, avoiding excessively dry air which may lead to leaf problems.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with support for climbing; protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleEccremocarpus scaber, commonly known as Chilean glory flower, begins its life as a seed that germinates in early spring with adequate warmth and moisture. The seed develops into a young seedling with tender shoots and leaves, establishing a root system in well-drained soil. As it matures, the plant exhibits rapid climbing growth due to its twining habit, seeking sunlight and support from nearby structures or plants. Throughout the summer, the Chilean glory flower blooms profusely, displaying tubular flowers that range in color from red to orange or yellow, attracting pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers develop into slender seed pods, which eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. In regions with mild winters, Eccremocarpus scaber can survive and behave as a perennial, while in colder climates, it is often grown as an annual.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chilean Glory Flower (Eccremocarpus scaber) is most commonly propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring, ensuring that any danger of frost has passed as they are sensitive to cold temperatures. To propagate, seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within 10 to 30 days. Sowing the seeds in a tray or pot with well-draining soil and placing them in a warm, bright spot enhances germination rates. Once seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden if the climate allows.
