The “Tree of Love Plant,” Clerodendrum thomsoniae (commonly known as Bleeding Heart Vine), is a captivating addition to any garden, known for its unique and vibrant blossoms.
Identifying Your Tree of Love Plant
Originating from West Africa, Clerodendrum thomsoniae is a vigorous vine that can be trained to climb or sprawl. Its common name, “Bleeding Heart Vine,” reflects its striking flower formation: inflated, balloon-like white calyxes from which brilliant crimson or dark red corollas emerge. These colorful parts create a vivid contrast, resembling a drop of red blood emerging from a heart-shaped structure. The glossy, dark green, oval leaves typically measure 5 to 7 inches long. Flowers are produced in clusters of 8 to 20, usually appearing during spring and summer, though they can bloom year-round with adequate light and warmth. Other common names include Glory Bower, Bagflower, and Tropical Bleeding Heart.
Essential Care for Your Tree of Love Plant
Light
The Tree of Love Plant flourishes best in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it receives filtered sunlight. Placing it near an east or west-facing window is ideal for indoor cultivation. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may result in leggy growth and reduced blooms. While it can tolerate some shade, consistent blooming requires several hours of bright light daily.
Watering
This plant appreciates consistent moisture, particularly during its active growing season. The soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged, as soggy conditions can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Watering frequency adjusts with the seasons; during colder, dormant months, the plant requires significantly less water. A mature vine can consume a substantial amount of water, sometimes up to 3 gallons weekly.
Soil
The Tree of Love Plant thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A suitable potting mix combines peat moss, perlite, and potting soil to ensure moisture retention and proper drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, Clerodendrum thomsoniae prefers warm temperatures, ideally ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 45°F (7°C) can cause damage, though the plant may regrow from its roots in spring. High humidity levels, at least 50% or higher, are beneficial. To increase humidity, consider misting leaves regularly, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a humidifier. Grouping plants together can also create a localized humid environment.
Fertilizing
Clerodendrum thomsoniae is a heavy feeder, especially when actively growing and flowering. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season to support vigorous growth and abundant blooms. A slow-release fertilizer every two months is an alternative. Reduce or cease fertilization during the plant’s winter dormancy. Adequate calcium can also promote optimal flowering.
Pruning and Shaping
Regular pruning helps maintain the Tree of Love Plant’s shape, encourages bushiness, and promotes more prolific flowering. Since the plant blooms on new growth, prune after its main flowering period or in early spring to stimulate fresh flowering shoots. Remove old, overcrowded stems and any far-reaching growth to keep the vine within desired bounds. Pinching back stem tips also encourages a fuller, more compact growth habit. Even severe pruning can be beneficial, allowing the vigorous grower to regenerate with renewed vigor.
Propagating New Plants
Propagating Clerodendrum thomsoniae is readily achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering stems 3 to 6 inches long, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged and consider dipping the cut end in rooting hormone. Cuttings can be rooted in water (roots may appear in about two weeks) or planted directly into a moistened rooting medium like peat moss and perlite. Provide warmth and indirect light, keeping the medium consistently moist but not soggy, until new growth indicates successful rooting.
Troubleshooting Common Concerns
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or underwatering, signifying an imbalance in soil moisture. Check the soil before watering and ensure proper drainage to resolve this. A lack of blooms can stem from insufficient light, inadequate nutrients, or low humidity. Adjusting its placement to a brighter spot, consistent fertilization, and boosting humidity can encourage more flowers. While generally robust, the plant can occasionally attract pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage these infestations.