Rangoon creeper
combretum indicum
Also known as: ["Quisqualis indica","Rangoon creeper vine"]
Overview
A vigorous, deciduous vine with fragrant, tubular flowers that change color from white to pink to red as they age.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Genus: | Combretum |
| Botanical Name: | Combretum indicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor pot in bright, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can be used.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure adequate light for blooming.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix that doesn't retain too much moisture; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief periods of cooler temperatures but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning roots; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location or protect with a frost cloth; avoid watering excessively in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Combretum indicum seeds or pods. The effects are typically not severe but can cause distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Combretum indicum seeds and pods can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCombretum indicum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and pods are the primary toxic parts due to their higher concentration of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Combretum indicum?
A: It can be propagated via stem cuttings or seeds.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and regular watering.
Q: Does the Rangoon creeper attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Combretaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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