Bush Clockvine
thunbergia laevis
Also known as: ["Bush Thunbergia","Velvet Thunbergia"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and tubular, yellow flowers with a dark throat.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Thunbergia |
| Botanical Name: | Thunbergia laevis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a warm, sheltered spot
- 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; ensure excess water can escape freely from the pot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter; can use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); adjust if necessary with lime or sulfur.
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; check soil pH annually; amend as needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical to subtropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during flowering periods.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can cause salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also be propagated by seed, though germination may be slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid propagation during dormancy.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light are ideal for rooting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates, especially for woody stems.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks; full establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use stems that are not too woody for better rooting; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune to control size and promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth first; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; also repot if the soil is depleted or drainage is poor.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; 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 deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
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 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; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or scorching 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 plants indoors or to a sheltered location; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); use frost cloth for outdoor protection.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThunbergia laevis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThunbergia laevis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThunbergia laevis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Thunbergia laevis?
A: It can be propagated via stem cuttings or seeds.
Q: Does Thunbergia laevis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Thunbergia laevis invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions, so it is best to manage its growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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