Variegated Scarlet Clock Vine, (Thunbergia coccinea ‘Variegata’)

Size: Single Plant | Pot/ Growbag Included

The care for a variegated Scarlet Clock Vine (Thunbergia coccinea ‘Variegata’) is similar to the non-variegated variety, with a few considerations for its unique foliage:

Variegated Scarlet Clock Vine, (Thunbergia coccinea ‘Variegata’) – Care

Light:

• Full Sun to Partial Shade: Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for the best flowering and vibrant variegation. However, in very hot climates (like parts of India during peak summer), some afternoon shade can protect the variegated leaves from scorching.

Watering:

• Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Allow Topsoil to Dry: Before watering again, let the top inch of the soil dry out to prevent overwatering and root rot.  
• Reduce in Winter: Water less frequently during the cooler months when the plant’s growth slows down.

Soil:

• Well-Draining: Use a fertile, well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.  

Slightly Acidic to Neutral: A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.  

Fertilizing:

• During Growing Season: Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.  
• High Phosphorus for Blooms: You can switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to promote more abundant blooms.
• Reduce or Stop in Winter: Hold off on fertilizing during the dormant winter period.

Temperature and Humidity:

• Warm Temperatures: Scarlet Clock Vine thrives in warm, tropical climates (ideally between 20-38°C or 68-100°F).  
• Protect from Frost: It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection from cold temperatures. In regions with frost, grow it in a container that can be brought indoors during winter.  
• High Humidity: It prefers high humidity. If the air is dry, especially indoors, you can increase humidity by misting regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water.

Pruning:

• Regular Pruning: Prune regularly to control its vigorous growth and encourage bushier foliage and more flowers.  
• Timing: The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins. You can also do light pruning after flowering to remove spent blooms and maintain shape.  
• Remove Dead or Weak Stems: Regularly remove any dead, damaged, or weak stems to keep the plant healthy.

Support:

• Climbing Vine: Provide a sturdy support structure such as a trellis, fence, arbor, or pergola for the vine to climb.  

Propagation:

• Stem Cuttings: Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.  

Pests and Diseases:

• Monitor Regularly: Check for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.  

Good Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation to help prevent fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering.  

Special Considerations for Variegation:

• Light Intensity: While it needs bright light, very intense, direct afternoon sun might sometimes scorch the lighter, variegated parts of the leaves, especially in hot Indian summers. Providing some filtered light during the hottest part of the day might be beneficial.
• Reversion: Occasionally, variegated plants can produce non-variegated (all green) stems. Prune these stems back to the point of variegation to maintain the desired leaf pattern.

By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your variegated Scarlet Clock Vine and its vibrant flowers. Remember to adjust your care based on your local climate and the specific needs of your plant.