Clerodendrum Bleeding Heart Vine

Clerodendrum Bleeding Heart Vine, is a beautiful tropical climbing plant admired for its unusual flowers and lush green foliage. Its distinctive blooms feature white, heart-shaped calyces with bright red flowers emerging from the centre, creating an eye-catching two-toned display.

Flowering mainly from spring through summer and into autumn in suitable warm conditions, Bleeding Heart Vine produces clusters of delicate, pendant flowers that stand out against its glossy, deep green leaves.

This vigorous climber can be trained over trellises, climbing frames and other garden supports, or grown in a large decorative container. Its naturally twining stems make it particularly attractive when allowed to climb or cascade.

Native to tropical West Africa, Clerodendrum thomsoniae prefers warm, sheltered conditions. In Melbourne and other cooler Victorian gardens, it is best grown in a protected, frost-free position, such as a warm courtyard, greenhouse or bright indoor space.

Mature size: approximately 2–4 metres high × 1–2 metres wide under favourable conditions, depending on growing environment, pruning and available support. Growth may be more restricted in containers or cooler climates.

Care & Growing Tips
Plant in bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight. Gentle morning sun is generally suitable, but protect the foliage from harsh afternoon sun, particularly during hot summer weather.

Bleeding Heart Vine prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. When growing in pots, use a quality premium potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage.

Water regularly during the warmer months, keeping the soil lightly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. Reduce watering during winter when growth naturally slows.

Protect from frost and cold winds. This tropical climber is sensitive to low temperatures and is not suited to exposed positions in Melbourne's colder winter months. Container-grown plants can be moved into a protected area during winter.

Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser during spring and summer to support healthy foliage and flowering.

Prune lightly after flowering or during the warmer growing season to maintain shape, control size and encourage bushier growth. Remove damaged or untidy stems as required.

Provide a trellis, climbing frame or other suitable support for the twining stems. Alternatively, allow the plant to trail from a large elevated container.

Ideal for
— Sheltered courtyards and patios
— Frost-free garden positions
— Large decorative pots and containers
— Trellises and climbing frames
— Tropical-style gardens
— Warm, protected outdoor spaces
— Bright indoor positions with suitable support
— Greenhouses and conservatories
— Adding vertical garden interest
— Decorative flowering displays
— Growing as a climbing or trailing feature
— Gardens with filtered sunlight