Mysore trumpet vine, clockvine
thunbergia mysorensis
Also known as: ["Mysore clockvine","red clock vine"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen vine with large, showy, red and yellow tubular flowers that hang in clusters, native to India.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Thunbergia |
| Botanical Name: | Thunbergia mysorensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a sheltered, partially shaded garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, but occasional misting can benefit in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Use sheer curtains to filter intense light; rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F/21–27°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–6 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long, leggy stems; pinch tips to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or flower drop; may cease blooming in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume the seeds of Thunbergia mysorensis. The alkaloids present are not considered highly toxic to felines but can cause temporary distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Thunbergia mysorensis contain compounds that can induce mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThunbergia mysorensis contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Thunbergia mysorensis grow?
A: It is a fast-growing vine that can quickly cover structures with support.
Q: Does Thunbergia mysorensis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Thunbergia mysorensis suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its vigorous growth habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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