Ornatec InternationalSpecies reference sheet ยท ornatecinternational.com
Clerodendrum thomsoniae
Bleeding Heart Vine
Clerodendrum thomsoniae, known everywhere as the Bleeding Heart Vine, is a West African twining climber that carries inflated white calyces from which crimson corollas emerge, giving the two-tone effect the common name describes. It climbs to 3 to 4 metres on a support.
It is a shade and filtered-light climber rather than a sun plant, and it earns its place on shaded courtyard walls, pergola undersides and large interior trellises.
Specifications
- Height3 to 4 metres (as a climber)
- Width1.5 to 2.5 metres
- Native toWest Africa
- FoliageDark green ovate leaves with prominent veining; evergreen in warm climates
- Growth rateModerate
Conditions
- SoilPrefers rich, free-draining soil that holds moisture
- LightPartial shade to filtered sun
- WaterModerate; keep evenly moist through the growing season
- ClimateThrives in humid tropical and warm subtropical regions; frost tender
Additional Features
- FlowersWhite inflated calyces with crimson corollas, carried from spring into autumn
- UsesIdeal for shaded courtyard walls, trellises, pergola undersides and large containers
- SpacingPlant 1 to 1.5 metres apart along a support
- Low MaintenancePrune after flowering to control size and encourage new flowering wood
- Pest ResistanceGenerally sound with basic care
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers draw butterflies
- Seasonal AppealThe white calyces persist after the red corollas drop, extending the display
The Bleeding Heart Vine is the flowering climber to reach for when the wall in question is a shaded one.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com
310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, Australia
Prepared 09 September 2026