The “Oscar flower,” or Clerodendrum thomsoniae, is commonly known as Bleeding Heart Vine. This striking plant features distinctive two-toned blossoms with white, bell-shaped calyxes encasing scarlet or crimson corollas. Native to tropical West Africa, this evergreen liana adds an exotic touch to any garden or indoor space. Its vigorous growth makes it a favored ornamental plant.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Oscar Flower
Providing the right environmental conditions is fundamental for the Bleeding Heart Vine’s vigorous growth and abundant flowering. It thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near a south or west-facing window indoors, or outdoors with morning sun and afternoon shade. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light hinders blooming and causes leggy growth.
Warm, consistent temperatures benefit this tropical species during active growth. An ideal indoor range is 18°C to 28°C (65°F to 75°F). During cooler winter months, a rest period around 10°C to 13°C (50°F to 55°F) encourages future blooms. Shield the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 7°C (45°F), which can cause damage.
High humidity levels mimic its native tropical habitat. Maintaining at least 50% humidity supports healthy foliage and plant vigor. This can be accomplished by regularly misting leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray, or using a room humidifier.
The Bleeding Heart Vine performs best in a well-draining soil mix that remains consistently moist but never waterlogged. A rich, organic potting mixture works well, benefiting from peat and perlite to enhance drainage while retaining moisture. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, generally 6.0 to 7.0.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Consistent watering is important for the Bleeding Heart Vine, especially during its active growing season from spring through fall. Keep the soil thoroughly moist, but prevent the pot from sitting in standing water, which can lead to root issues. During the winter rest period, significantly reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out more between applications to prevent rot.
Fertilization supports the plant’s vigorous growth and prolific flowering. During active growth, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks, or a slow-release granular fertilizer every two months. Supplementing with calcium, such as crushed eggshells, can further promote blooming. Withhold fertilizer completely during the winter dormancy period.
Regular pruning maintains the plant’s shape and size, encouraging more abundant flowering as blooms are produced on new growth. Prune after the main flowering period or in late winter to early spring before new shoots emerge. This involves cutting back at least half of the previous year’s growth to encourage strong, flower-producing stems.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Bleeding Heart Vine is not blooming, insufficient light is a common cause, as adequate light is essential for flower production. Nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of fertilizer or calcium, can also play a role.
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, where soggy soil deprives roots of oxygen. Yellowing can also signal a nutrient deficiency, such as insufficient iron or calcium. Adjusting watering habits or providing a balanced fertilizer can help address these concerns.
While relatively resilient, Bleeding Heart Vines can occasionally encounter pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Spider mites often manifest as fine webbing, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by wiping affected areas with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab.