How to Grow Bleeding Flower
Bleeding Flower
Clerodendrum thomsoniae
vineBleeding flower is a tropical climbing vine known for its striking two-toned flowers featuring white calyces and deep red or crimson corollas that resemble drops of blood. Native to West Africa, this ornamental plant is popular in warm climates and as a houseplant for its dramatic, long-blooming flowers. It thrives in bright, indirect light and warm temperatures, making it ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens.
When should you plant Bleeding Flower in your zone?
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Example Bleeding Flower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bleeding Flower
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Bleeding Flower
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bleeding Flower dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; can be grown indoors in cooler climates
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Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall seedlings with 2-4 true leaves, very tender and delicate
Provide bright, indirect light. Keep soil consistently moist. Maintain warmth (70-75°F). Use seedling heat mat if necessary.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksYoung vine developing multiple stems and heart-shaped leaves; no flowering yet
Provide sturdy support structure or trellis. Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness.
Pre-flowering
2-3 weeksVine becoming more established with mature foliage; flower buds beginning to form at leaf axils
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; switch to phosphorus-rich formula to encourage blooming. Continue consistent watering and humidity.
Flowering
3-6 months or longerAbundant clusters of distinctive bicolor flowers with white sepals and deep red petals appearing continuously
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F minimum). Keep humidity high. Feed monthly with flowering fertilizer.
Post-flowering/Rest
2-3 monthsFlowering slows in winter; vine may drop some leaves in cooler conditions
Reduce watering slightly but maintain soil moisture. Cut back on fertilizer. Prune to shape plant and remove dead wood. Maintain temperatures above 60°F.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until resolved. Remove heavily infested stems. Increase air circulation.
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Increase humidity and mist foliage daily. Spray with miticide or neem oil every 5-7 days. Prune heavily infested leaves.
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Manually remove with soft brush and alcohol. Spray with horticultural oil. Repeat treatments every 7-10 days.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5-7 days.
Uses
Tropical floral garnish
CulinaryThe striking flowers are occasionally used as an elegant, non-toxic garnish for tropical beverages and gourmet dishes, adding visual drama without altering flavor. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
CraftThe long-lasting, bicolor flowers are prized for tropical and exotic floral arrangements, particularly in wedding and special event design. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for supporting local pollinator populations in tropical gardens. [source]
Ornamental houseplant
HouseholdA stunning tropical houseplant that brings year-round color and exotic character to indoor spaces, particularly well-suited to bright sunrooms and conservatories. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn traditional African and Asian medicine, various Clerodendrum species have been used in folk remedies, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant grown for flowers, not harvested for food or material. Deadhead spent flower clusters to extend blooming season and promote new flower formation. Cut stems for fresh arrangements when flowers are fully open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Bleeding Flower' comes from the dramatic appearance of the deep red petals emerging from bright white calyces, resembling drops of blood.
- 🌱 Clerodendrum thomsoniae is sometimes called the 'Bagflower' because the swollen white calyces (sepals) resemble small bags or pouches when the red petals first emerge.
- 🌱 This vine can bloom almost year-round in ideal conditions, providing consistent color and pollinator activity in tropical and warm subtropical gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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