Philippine Trumpet Vine
tecomanthe dendrophila
Also known as: ["Philippine Trumpet Vine","Flame Vine"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen climbing vine native to the Philippines, known for its large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Tecomanthe |
| Botanical Name: | Tecomanthe dendrophila |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a sheltered garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled sunlight
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
rich, well-draining, organic soil with good moisture retention
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes several months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or secateurs.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape growth, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches in diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
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, adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky ingredients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Tecomanthe dendrophila may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats if consumed. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Tecomanthe dendrophila can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not life-threatening, ingestion may result in temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Tecomanthe dendrophila contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Tecomanthe dendrophila grow?
A: It is a fast-growing vine that can quickly cover structures or climb trees.
Q: Does it require support?
A: Yes, it is a climbing vine and needs a trellis, wall, or tree for support.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and regular watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled sunli |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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