Overview:
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. is a tropical climbing plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is also known commonly as the "Bleeding Heart Vine" because of its heart-shaped red flowers that hang from the stems.
Origin:
This plant is native to tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It grows in the understory of rainforests and is often found climbing up trees or hanging from branches.
Common Names:
Aside from the Bleeding Heart Vine, this plant is also referred to as Glory Bower, Bagflower, and Shooting Star Vine, among others, in different parts of the world.
Uses:
The Bleeding Heart Vine is mainly grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers. It is often trained to grow on trellises or walls, and can also be grown in hanging baskets. It prefers bright indirect light and moist soil, making it a popular houseplant in many regions. In traditional medicine, the roots and leaves of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as stomach problems, headaches, and skin infections.
General Appearance:
This climbing plant has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped with pronounced veins, growing up to about 4 inches long. The flowers are the highlight of the plant, with heart-shaped petals that are bright red and hang from the stems in clusters. Each flower is about an inch long and has a small white center. The plant can grow up to 20 feet long, making it an impressive sight when it is in full bloom.
Growth Conditions for Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild.
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. is a beautiful plant that requires certain growth conditions to thrive. Below are the requirements for optimal growth:
Light
The Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. plant requires bright, indirect light to grow well. Direct sunlight may burn the leaves, but the plant won't do well in deep shade either. Place the plant near a north-facing window for best results. Southern-facing windows may be too bright, and western-facing windows may be too hot. If the plant isn't getting enough light, it will produce fewer flowers. Too much light can cause leaf damage.
Temperature
The Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. plant prefers warmer temperatures. Ideal temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 24 degrees Celsius), but it can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius). Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) can be harmful to the plant.
Soil
The Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. plant requires a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be moist but not soggy. Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil doesn't dry out completely between waterings. The plant is sensitive to mineral salts, so it's best to use distilled water or rainwater. If using tap water, allow it to sit for 24 hours before using to let the chlorine evaporate. Fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Cultivation Methods
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures and abundant sunlight. It can be grown outdoors in warm climates or indoors in a container in cooler regions. The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seed.
When planting Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild., be sure to choose a location with ample sunlight and space for the plant to grow. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a bright window or under grow lights. Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.
Watering Needs
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. requires regular watering to thrive. The plant should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. When watering, be sure to provide enough to thoroughly wet the soil.
During the growing season, which is typically from spring to summer, the plant may need to be watered more frequently. In the winter, the plant may require less water. If the plant is grown in a container, be sure to monitor the drainage holes to ensure that excess water is draining properly.
Fertilization
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
When applying fertilizer, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Over-fertilizing can damage the plant, so be sure not to exceed the recommended amount. If growing the plant in a container, consider using a slow-release fertilizer for longer-lasting results.
Pruning
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and to promote healthy growth. Pruning can be done in the spring or early summer before the plant begins to produce new growth.
To prune the plant, use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back any dead or diseased branches. Cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Thin out any weak or spindly branches to allow more light and air to reach the center of the plant.
When pruning, be sure not to remove more than one-third of the total plant material. This will ensure that the plant has enough foliage to continue producing energy through photosynthesis.
Propagation of Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild.
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. can be propagated by various methods such as stem cuttings, layering, and root cuttings.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a popular method of propagation for Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. To propagate this plant using stem cuttings, follow these steps:
- Select a healthy stem from the parent plant that has a mature growth, without any damage and at least 6 inches long.
- With a sterilized sharp garden shear, make a clean cut below a node or a leaf junction, and remove all leaves from the stem except for the top leaves.
- Optional: Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
- Insert the stem cuttings into a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil mix and cover the top with a plastic bag or a bell jar to retain humidity.
- Place the pot in a warm, bright and shaded location to avoid direct sunlight.
- Check the soil every few days and sprinkle water if the soil is dry. Don't over-water the soil, as it can lead to root rot and fungal disease.
- Within 3-6 weeks, the cuttings develop roots and produce new growth, which indicates successful propagation.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is another method by which Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. can be propagated. This method works well if the parent plant has long, flexible stems. Follow these steps to propagate the plant using layering:
- Select a healthy, flexible stem from the parent plant that is long enough to reach the ground.
- Choose a spot below a leaf node where a new root can emerge and wrap it with moist peat moss or soil mix.
- Secure the wrapped area with a wire or a stake and cover it with plastic, leaving a small opening at the top to allow air circulation.
- After a few weeks, check if the roots have developed under the wrapped area and cut the stem from the parent plant below the rooted area.
- Transplant the new plant with the rooted stem into a pot or the ground.
Propagation by Root Cuttings
Propagation by root cuttings involves taking a section of an established root from the parent plant and using it as a cutting to propagate the new plant. Follow these steps to propagate Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. by root cutting:
- Choose a healthy root from the parent plant that has a mature growth and cut a section of it that is at least 1-2 inches long.
- Plant the root cutting horizontally in well-draining soil and cover it with a thin layer of soil mix.
- Water the soil and place it in a warm and shaded area.
- Within a few weeks, new shoots begin to emerge, indicating successful propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild.
Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant but can suffer from pests and fungal diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them:
Fungal Diseases
The most common fungal diseases affecting Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. are powdery mildew and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Leaf spot appears as small, circular brown or black spots on the leaves. Both diseases can be managed by removing infected leaves and stems and applying a fungicide to the remaining parts of the plant. It is also important to maintain good air circulation around the plant to prevent the spread of spores.
Pests
The most common pests that attack Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Spider mites are tiny, red or brown insects that also feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Both pests can be managed by removing infected leaves and stems and applying an insecticidal soap or oil. It is also important to maintain good hygiene around the plant and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can attract pests.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation and prompt action can help keep it healthy and beautiful. With proper disease and pest management, Clerodendrum variifolium De Wild. var. scandens De Wild. can thrive in a variety of growing conditions and provide years of enjoyment for its owners.
