Climbing Gloxinia
lophospermum erubescens
Also known as: ["Columbine Vine","Red Gloxinia"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with tubular, bright red flowers and heart-shaped leaves, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Lophospermum |
| Botanical Name: | Lophospermum erubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in mild climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove spent flowers or leggy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; use reflective surfaces to increase light in low-light areas.
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 wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor plant response to seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for Lophospermum erubescens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
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) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or diseased stems first.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems; also prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts first; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause root damage, leaf drop, and slow growth.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; cover the pot with insulating material during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 85°F (29°C) can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Lophospermum erubescens. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lophospermum erubescens can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLophospermum erubescens contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Lophospermum erubescens?
A: It can be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds, with cuttings being the more reliable method.
Q: Does this plant require support?
A: Yes, it is a climbing vine and will need a trellis or support structure to grow properly.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and regular watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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