Thomsoniae Bleeding Heart

Clerodendrum thomsoniae is a species of flowering plant in the genus Clerodendrum of the family Lamiaceae, native to tropical west Africa from Cameroon west to Senegal. It is an evergreen liana growing to 4 m tall, with ovate to oblong leaves 8–17 cm cm long. Related to the beauty-berry bush and lantana, this vine is powerful in color. The white calyx’s and scarlet flowers would make even the most drab tree glorious. They bloom sporadically Spring through Fall with the heaviest concentration of bloom in the Summer. It holds itself by wrapping around any support it can reach, so once started, further training is not needed. It is often grown in pots as a standalone plant. It originates from West Africa. It will be damaged when temperatures drop into twenties. It prefers good soil and drainage and seems to do its best with morning light. Clerodendrum thomsoniae can withstand pretty dry growing conditions. It is a sub-tropical vine that wraps its tendrils around a trellis or other support. The vines also respond well to hanging baskets, where they drape attractively over the sides. The flowers of bleeding heart vine are arresting, with crimson petals emerging from a white base.