The Pakalana vine (Telosma cordata) is a highly coveted tropical climber celebrated for its intensely fragrant flowers. Often used in traditional Hawaiian leis, this plant produces clusters of golden-yellow blooms that emit a rich fragrance, particularly noticeable from dusk through the night hours. Native to regions of China and Indo-China, it is cultivated worldwide and sometimes called Tonkin jasmine or cowslip creeper. Successful cultivation requires providing conditions that mimic its native tropical environment.
Establishing the Optimal Environment
The Pakalana vine thrives best when it receives full sun exposure, ideally needing at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for robust growth and flowering. Insufficient light will cause it to become leggy and significantly hinder its ability to produce blooms. As a tropical species, Telosma cordata is highly sensitive to cold temperatures, performing optimally between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
It must be protected from temperatures falling below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, as it cannot tolerate frost. The plant requires a well-drained soil composition to prevent root rot and waterlogging. A sandy loam or a standard potting mix amended with organic material provides the necessary balance of drainage and fertility. The ideal soil pH for this vine ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (6.1 to 7.5).
Propagation Methods and Transplanting
Propagating the Pakalana vine is most reliably accomplished through stem cuttings, using softwood or semi-hardwood pieces taken from healthy shoots. A cutting should include two to three nodes, with the lower leaves stripped away. Applying a rooting hormone to the base of the cutting significantly improves root development success.
The cutting should be placed in a well-draining rooting medium and kept warm, out of direct sun, until new growth appears. Growing the plant from seed is possible but less common, as the seeds are difficult to germinate. Seeds should be collected from dried pods, and scarification—slightly breaking the seed coat—is suggested to encourage germination.
When transplanting, situate the plant in its permanent location with minimal root disturbance. The new planting hole should be slightly larger than the root ball, and the plant should be set at the same depth it was previously growing. After backfilling the hole with the prepared soil mix, a thorough initial watering will help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots.
Routine Maintenance and Structural Support
Consistent moisture levels are necessary for the Pakalana vine during its active growing season. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but never saturated, as the plant is highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Deep watering, allowing the top layer of soil to dry slightly between applications, is more effective than frequent shallow watering.
A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be applied regularly throughout the growing season to encourage vigorous growth. Applying fertilizer biweekly at half the recommended label strength is common for container-grown plants to prevent root burn. In the cooler winter months, fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely as the vine’s growth slows.
The Pakalana vine is a fast-growing, twining climber, capable of reaching heights of 16 feet or more. Providing a sturdy structural support, such as a trellis, arbor, or fence, is necessary for the vine to climb. Guiding the young, flexible stems onto the support structure early ensures the plant grows vertically and maintains a manageable shape.
Maximizing Flower Production and Pest Control
Strategic pruning is necessary for maximizing flower production, as the vine naturally focuses on vegetative growth. Pruning should be performed during the winter or early spring when the plant’s growth is slowest. Trimming the vine back to a manageable size controls its spread and promotes the lateral branching where the flower clusters will form.
The Pakalana vine can attract sap-sucking pests like aphids and mealybugs, which weaken the plant. Mealybugs often appear as white, cottony masses, congregating in crevices and nodes of the plant. Aphids tend to favor the newest, softest growth and come in a variety of colors.
For localized infestations, a strong spray of water can dislodge aphids from the plant. Mealybugs can be spot-treated by dabbing them directly with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. For more widespread problems, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the population. Flowers should be harvested in the evening or early morning when their rich fragrance is at its peak.