White Thunbergia

thunbergia fragrans

Also known as: ["White Clock Vine","White Thunbergia Vine"]

Family: Acanthaceae Genus: Thunbergia Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, twining vine with fragrant, white flowers and heart-shaped leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Acanthaceae
Genus: Thunbergia
Botanical Name: Thunbergia fragrans

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sheltered garden spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–32°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates to maintain humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration; can include organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and vigor; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
  • 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 or full sun for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal changes to prevent leaf burn.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or inadequate drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.

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 potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix designed for flowering plants; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can cause salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; softwood cuttings root easily under warm, humid conditions.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium or place in water.
  5. Maintain humidity and warmth.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water; can use perlite or vermiculite for better aeration.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots or containers, plastic wrap or propagation dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves.

Pruning Plan

Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; best done after flowering or in early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
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, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf drop in cold; wilting or leaf scorch 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; provide a heat source if needed; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.

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; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Thunbergia fragrans may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Thunbergia fragrans can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, root damage, or pest infestations that impair water uptake, leading to dehydration and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Thunbergia fragrans are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to unsightly lesions, reduced photosynthesis, and potential defoliation if the infection spreads.

Rotting in Thunbergia fragrans is often a result of fungal infections or bacterial pathogens, particularly in poorly drained soils, leading to root or stem decay, which can be fatal if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Thunbergia fragrans seeds or berries. The plant poses a low risk, but ingestion should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected or symptoms appear.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Thunbergia fragrans seeds or berries may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic, but caution is advised to prevent accidental ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of pets. Monitor dogs for any signs of ingestion and consult a veterinarian if symptoms occur.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Thunbergia fragrans contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion of seeds or berries may lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and berries. Wash hands after handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I propagate Thunbergia fragrans?

A: It can be propagated via stem cuttings or seeds.

Q: Does Thunbergia fragrans require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Is Thunbergia fragrans invasive?

A: It can be vigorous and may require containment in some climates.

Quick Reference
Family: Acanthaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","fragrance lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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