Climbing Mutisia Mutisia decurrens
ABOUT
The plant known as Mutisia decurrens is a distinctive and ornate flowering plant that boasts a series of remarkable characteristics. It is adorned with large, showy flowers that exhibit a radiant orange hue which can sometimes blend into shades of pink or yellow. The flower heads present themselves with long, narrow petals that radiate around a central disk, giving them a strikingly sun-like appearance. This plant displays climbing tendencies through its long, vine-like stems which are equipped with tendrils, allowing it to grasp onto surrounding structures or vegetation for support. The foliage of this climbing beauty is also noteworthy; the leaves are glossy and deep green, with a lanceolate shape that tapers to a point. These leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, and some may feature toothed or slightly serrated edges, contributing to the lush texture of the plant's overall appearance. The stems and leaves together create a dense and vibrant verdure that serves as a backdrop to the spectacular blooms. As a perennial, it has a life cycle that spans more than two years, often welcoming a recurrent display of its alluring flowers over several seasons. Notably, this plant becomes even more enchanting when its flowers are visited by various pollinators such as bees and butterflies, highlighting its role in the local ecosystem.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Orange Flame Vine, Climbing Gazania, Decurrent Mutisia
Common names
Mutisia decurrens Cav.
ToxicityTo humans
Mutisia decurrens, commonly known as the climbing gazania, is not widely reported to be toxic to humans. However, the lack of information on its toxicity does not guarantee safety and consuming parts of plants not known to be edible should be done with caution. If a plant is not typically recognized as a food source, any ingestion can carry unknown risks, and may potentially result in symptoms of poisoning based on individual sensitivities or allergic reactions. In general, if any part of a plant not known for its edibility is ingested, it is advisable to monitor for any symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or any abnormal reactions, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
To pets
Climbing gazania, or Mutisia decurrens, is not specifically documented for its toxicity to pets like cats and dogs. Nonetheless, as with humans, the absence of toxicity information warrants caution. Pets may have sensitivity to plants that are not known to be poisonous, and ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset or other health issues. Symptoms of possible plant poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, or changes in behavior. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant or any other plant and is showing signs of distress, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Andes
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Mutisia decurrens, commonly known as Climbing Aster, is often used in gardens for its striking flowers and aesthetic appeal.
- Habitat Support: It provides nectar and pollen for pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.
- Soil Protection: As a climbing plant, it can cover the ground or other structures, helping to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Shade Provider: When grown over structures, it can provide shade and cooler environments in gardens or patios.
- Perennial Growth: Being a perennial, it returns yearly, reducing the need for annual replanting and maintenance.
- Educational Interest: Due to its unique growth habits and flowers, it offers an educational opportunity for those studying botany or horticulture.
- Food Source: In some regions, the petals may be used as a colorful addition to salads or dishes, though not commonly a significant food source.
Medical Properties- Mutisia decurrens, commonly known as Clavel del Campo, has been used in traditional medicine.
- It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties.
- The plant has been used for its potential wound-healing effects.
- There are reports of its use as an analgesic to relieve pain.
- Some traditional use cases include treating stomach ailments.
- It has been used in poultices for bruises and swellings.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The climbing nature of Mutisia decurrens, also known as the Orange Flame Vine, allows it to be used as a natural screen for privacy on fences or trellises.
- Due to its large and attractive flowers, it is often planted as an ornamental to enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and patios.
- Bird enthusiasts sometimes use this vine to attract hummingbirds, as its blossoms are rich in nectar.
- The plant can be used in large floral arrangements or displays due to its striking flowers and long stems.
- Gardeners might cultivate Mutisia decurrens to create vertical accents in landscape design, guiding the eye upward and adding depth.
- The stems and tendrils of the plant can be used in crafts or weaving to create natural art pieces or functional items like baskets.
- Incorporating the Orange Flame Vine can add a layer of complexity to a butterfly garden, inviting various species with its vibrant blooms.
- The plant might be used in educational settings such as botanical gardens to teach about the diversity of climbing plants and their adaptations.
- It can serve as part of a living roof or green wall system, contributing to urban greening and ecological architecture projects.
- The plant has potential use in ecological restoration projects, serving as a native species for rehabilitating and stabilizing slopes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Climbing Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Climbing Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Mutisia decurrens, commonly known as the climbing aster, grows in harsh mountainous environments, symbolizing toughness and the ability to withstand challenging conditions.
- Ambition: As a vining plant, it continuously reaches upward, exemplifying aspiration and the pursuit of higher goals.
- Beauty in Adversity: Despite growing in tough terrain, the climbing aster blooms with striking flowers, representing finding and showcasing beauty even in difficult circumstances.
- Hope: The bright flowers of the climbing aster are often seen as a symbol of hope and a reminder that positivity can bloom amidst adversity.
WaterThe Mutisia decurrens, commonly known as the Orange Flame Vine, requires thorough watering when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Depending on the climate and environment, this might be about once every 7 to 10 days. When watering, use enough water to moisten the soil deeply, which might equate to approximately 1 gallon for a medium-sized plant. During the growing season, in spring and summer, the plant's water needs will typically increase due to higher temperatures and more active growth. It's important to reduce the frequency of watering in the cooler months to prevent root rot, as the plant will enter a dormancy phase with slower growth.
LightThe Orange Flame Vine thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and can benefit from a few hours of direct sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon. The ideal spot for this plant would be a location where it receives bright, filtered light throughout the day, such as near an east- or west-facing window. Too much direct sunlight, especially during peak hours, can scorch the leaves, while too little light can hinder flowering.
TemperatureThe Orange Flame Vine prefers a warm climate and does best in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. It can survive minimal exposure to temperatures as low as 50°F, but should be protected from frost and extreme cold, which can be detrimental to the plant. Maintaining optimal temperature conditions within this range will facilitate healthier growth and flowering.
PruningPrune the Orange Flame Vine to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or damaged foliage. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It's typically sufficient to prune this plant once a year unless you are trying to control its size more strictly or are training it on a trellis or support structure.
CleaningAs needed
SoilClimbing Aster prefers rich, well-draining soil with ample organic matter. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts creates an ideal environment. It thrives in a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingClimbing Aster should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting this plant.
Humidity & MistingClimbing Aster requires moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 60% to 80%, to mimic its native cloud forest conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and maintain high humidity for Climbing Aster.
Outdoor
Place Climbing Aster in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleMutisia decurrens, commonly known as the Orange Climbing Daisy, starts its life as a seed, which upon germination in suitable conditions—well-drained soil and partial shade—develops into a seedling. The seedling then grows into a juvenile plant, where it starts to develop characteristic climbing stems and foliage. In its vegetative stage, the Orange Climbing Daisy matures and accumulates resources necessary for reproduction. When environmental conditions are right, usually in the warmer months, it enters its reproductive phase, producing distinctive orange flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruits that contain seeds, completing the cycle. These seeds eventually disperse, sometimes with the assistance of animals or wind, to give rise to new seedlings and continue the species' life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Cruz del Sur can be most effectively propagated through seeds. The best propagation time for this method is usually in the spring when the risk of frost has passed and temperatures are consistently warm, which encourages germination and growth. To propagate Mutisia decurrens by seeds, they should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Place the seed container in a location with indirect light and a consistent temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Germination times can vary, but with optimal conditions, seeds should sprout within a few weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted to their final location once they have reached a size that is easy to handle and after all danger of frost has passed.
