Mural Vine
streptosolen jamesonii
Also known as: ["Chilean Mural Vine","Yellow Mural Vine"]
Overview
A vibrant, evergreen vine native to South America, known for its striking yellow flowers that age to orange and red, creating a multicolored display.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Streptosolen |
| Botanical Name: | Streptosolen jamesonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak summer hours; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring–summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn brown or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if needed; protect from drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStreptosolen jamesonii is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicStreptosolen jamesonii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicStreptosolen jamesonii is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Streptosolen jamesonii?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Q: Can I grow this vine indoors?
A: While possible, it prefers outdoor conditions. If grown indoors, ensure bright light and good air circulation to mimic its natural habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store