The bleeding heart vine (Clerodendrum thomsoniae) is a breathtaking tropical climber known for its striking white and red flowers that resemble a bleeding heart. This vine is loved by gardeners for its long-lasting blooms, ease of care, and ability to climb trellises, fences, and walls with grace.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, the bleeding heart vine is a rewarding plant to grow. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about planting, caring for, and troubleshooting issues with this stunning vine.
- 1 What Is the Bleeding Heart Vine?
- 2 Choosing the Right Location
- 3 Soil Requirements
- 4 Watering Schedule
- 5 Temperature & Humidity Needs
- 6 Fertilizing for Optimal Growth
- 7 Pruning and Training the Vine
- 8 Common Problems and How to Fix Them
- 9 Propagating Bleeding Heart Vine
- 10 Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- 11 Winter Care: How to Protect Your Bleeding Heart Vine
- 12 Why You Should Grow a Bleeding Heart Vine
- 13 Fertilizer :
- 14 Pests and deseases :
What Is the Bleeding Heart Vine?
The bleeding heart vine, also called glory bower or bagflower, is a fast-growing, evergreen climber native to West Africa. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, the same family as mint and lavender.
This vine is often confused with the bleeding heart plant (Dicentra spectabilis), which is a perennial that grows in cooler climates and produces pink, heart-shaped flowers. Despite their similar names, they are completely different plants.
The bleeding heart vine produces clusters of flowers with white, balloon-like sepals and deep red petals that resemble a drop of blood, giving it its common name. The flowers bloom repeatedly throughout the year in warm climates, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Clerodendrum thomsoniae |
| Common Names | Bleeding Heart Vine, Glory Bower, Bagflower |
| Plant Type | Evergreen climbing vine |
| Native To | West Africa |
| Flower Colors | White sepals with red petals |
| Sunlight Needs | Bright, indirect light to partial sun |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, fertile soil |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic if ingested |
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the right location is crucial for healthy growth.
Outdoors: Place it in a partially shaded area where it gets morning sun but is protected from harsh afternoon rays.
Indoors: Keep it near a south- or east-facing window where it gets bright, filtered light.
If grown outdoors, bleeding heart vine performs best in USDA zones 9–11. In colder zones, grow it in a container and bring it indoors during winter.
Soil Requirements
The bleeding heart vine thrives in well-draining, fertile soil.
Best Soil Mix:
50% garden soil
25% compost or organic matter
25% perlite or sand for drainage
Ideal pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
A rich, organic soil will encourage faster growth and more abundant blooms.
Watering Schedule
Watering is a key factor in keeping your plant healthy.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
When the top inch of soil feels dry, water. In winter, cut back on watering to avoid root rot. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent overwatering.
Temperature & Humidity Needs
Since this is a tropical plant, it prefers warm temperatures and high humidity.
Ideal temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C).
Minimum temperature: 50°F (10°C) – anything lower can cause leaf drop.
Humidity: Above 50%. If growing indoors, mist the leaves or place a humidity tray nearby.
Fertilizing for Optimal Growth
To encourage blooming and healthy foliage, feed your plant regularly.
During the growing season (spring to summer): Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every 2–3 weeks.
To boost flowering: Use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer (such as 10-30-10).
During fall and winter: Reduce feeding to once a month or stop altogether.
Pruning and Training the Vine
Regular pruning helps keep your bleeding heart vine manageable and encourages bushy growth.
Before new growth begins, prune in the early spring.
Remove dead, weak, or overgrown stems to maintain shape.
Train the vine on a trellis, fence, or arbor to support its climbing habit.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Problem Cause Solution
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering, poor drainage | Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; ensure good drainage. |
| No flowers | Lack of sunlight, too much nitrogen | Move to a sunnier spot; use a bloom-boosting fertilizer. |
| Leaf drop | Sudden temperature changes | Keep temperature stable and avoid cold drafts. |
| Pests (aphids, spider mites) | Dry air, weak plant | Increase humidity, wash leaves with insecticidal soap. |
Propagating Bleeding Heart Vine
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
Take a Cutting: Choose a healthy, 4–6 inch long stem with at least two leaves.
Get the cutting ready: Take off the lowest leaves and apply rooting hormone to the cut end.
Plant It: Place the cutting in a small pot filled with moist, well-draining soil.
Create Humidity: Cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain moisture.
Keep Warm: Place it in bright, indirect light and maintain humidity.
Wait for Roots: Roots should develop in 3–6 weeks.
Once the roots are strong, transplant the young plant into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Winter Care: How to Protect Your Bleeding Heart Vine
If grown outdoors in cold climates, bring the plant indoors before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
In winter, cut back on watering to avoid root rot.
Keep it in a bright, warm spot with adequate humidity.
Why You Should Grow a Bleeding Heart Vine
Stunning Blooms – Its red and white flowers create a striking visual appeal.
Easy to Grow – With basic care, it thrives in pots or gardens.
Attracts Pollinators – Butterflies and hummingbirds love this plant.
Perfect for Trellises – Its climbing habit makes it a beautiful decorative plant.
Can Be Grown Indoors or Outdoors – Adaptable to various settings.
The bleeding heart vine is a low-maintenance yet rewarding plant that can add a unique touch to your garden or indoor space. With the right care, it will flourish and produce stunning blooms year after year.
Fertilizer :
Once the plant is actively growing, use a teaspoon of complete fertiliser, such as 14-14-14, or a controlled release fertiliser, and fertilise once every three months.
Pests and deseases :
Although bleeding hearts are comparatively pest-resistant, mealybugs and spider mites can still harm them. Spraying insecticidal soap is usually enough to keep pests under control. Spray again every seven to ten days, or as necessary, to get rid of the insects.
This plant rewards its grower with a consistent cascade of flowers even for beginners and is not particularly difficult to grow. Additionally, it works well in settings like a condominium or a tiny apartment.
FAQs on Bleeding Heart Vine Care
1. What is the best location for Bleeding Heart Vine care?
The best location for Bleeding Heart Vine care is a spot with bright, indirect light. This plant thrives when placed near east- or west-facing windows indoors or in partial shade outdoors. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves, and ensure good airflow around the plant.
2. How often should I water for proper Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Heart Bleeding Watering vines should be moderate but regular. When the top inch of soil seems dry, give the plant a good watering. Underwatering can result in leaf drop, while overwatering can induce root rot. To avoid too much moisture remaining in the container, always choose soil that drains effectively.
3. Which temperature is best for caring for bleeding heart vines?
Ideal temperatures for Bleeding Heart Vine care range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). This vine is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, so keep it away from AC vents and chilly windows. It performs best in consistently warm and humid conditions.
4. Does Bleeding Heart Vine care include fertilization?
Indeed, fertilisation is necessary for the proper maintenance of bleeding heart vines. Every two weeks throughout the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertiliser. When development slows in the fall and winter, cut back on feeding. During the flowering phase, this promotes more profuse blossoms and colourful foliage.
5. Can I grow the plant indoors under Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Bleeding Heart Vine care can be successfully managed indoors with the right setup. Keep the humidity constant and place it in a bright, filtered-light area. Regular pruning will help you manage its size and shape. A trellis or stake can support its natural climbing habit inside the home.
6. What type of soil is best for Bleeding Heart Vine care?
For optimal Bleeding Heart Vine care, use rich, well-draining soil. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost provides excellent nutrients and aeration. A slightly acidic pH is preferred by this plant over a neutral one. To avoid root rot and other water-related problems, proper drainage is essential.
7. Is pruning necessary for Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Yes, pruning is an important aspect of Bleeding Heart Vine care. Trim back long or unruly stems to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Pruning after blooming also helps maintain shape and prevents the vine from becoming too leggy or overgrown.
8. How do I propagate the plant under Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Propagation is easy with proper Bleeding Heart Vine care. Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer, just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves and place the cutting in water or moist potting mix. Until roots form, which should happen about two to four weeks, keep it warm and moist.
9. Does Bleeding Heart Vine care include pest control?
Yes, Bleeding Heart Vine care may involve pest control for aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites.Regularly check the plant, and when pests appear, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Keeping the plant healthy with proper light, water, and air circulation helps prevent infestations.
10. What’s the flowering season in Bleeding Heart Vine care?
With proper Bleeding Heart Vine care, the plant typically flowers in spring and summer, showcasing clusters of heart-shaped red or pink blooms surrounded by white bracts. Providing ample light, regular feeding, and consistent pruning encourages longer and more vibrant flowering periods.
11. Should humidity be considered in Bleeding Heart Vine care?
When it comes to caring for bleeding heart vines, humidity is crucial. This tropical plant thrives on atmospheric moisture. Maintain a humidity level above 50%, particularly in arid interior spaces. To assist the plant resemble its natural habitat, use a pebble tray, humidifier, or mist it occasionally.
12. Can Bleeding Heart Vine care help revive a dying plant?
Yes, focused Bleeding Heart Vine care can revive a struggling plant. Look for signs of root rot, inadequate light, or overwatering.Trim dead stems and leaves, repot if needed, and adjust care routines. With time and consistent care, the vine can recover and begin producing new growth.
13. How large can the plant grow with good Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Under proper Bleeding Heart Vine care, the plant can grow up to 10–15 feet in ideal outdoor conditions. Indoors, it stays more compact but may still require regular pruning. Provide climbing support to help the vine trail or climb as it matures.
14. What’s the best pot size for Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Use a pot that is 1-2 inches bigger than the root ball when caring for bleeding heart vines. In order to avoid waterlogging, make sure it has drainage holes. To allow for root expansion and ongoing healthy growth, repot the plant every one to two years into a slightly larger container.
15. Are there seasonal changes to consider in Bleeding Heart Vine care?
Yes, Bleeding Heart Vine care should be adjusted seasonally. In winter, reduce watering and stop fertilizing as the plant goes dormant. Move it to a warmer spot if temperatures drop.Resuming routine maintenance in the spring will encourage new growth and get ready for flowering.