How to Grow Scarlet Combretum
Scarlet Combretum
Combretum coccineum
vineCombretum coccineum, commonly known as Scarlet Combretum or Burning Flame Vine, is a vigorous tropical climbing vine prized for its striking clusters of bright scarlet-red flowers. Native to West Africa, this ornamental vine produces delicate, feathery foliage and showy tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It thrives in warm climates and makes an exceptional choice for pergolas, trellises, and fence coverage.
When should you plant Scarlet Combretum in your zone?
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Example Scarlet Combretum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Scarlet Combretum
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 Scarlet Combretum
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Combretum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11; can be grown in containers and overwintered indoors in cooler zones
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Get my Scarlet Combretum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung vine develops initial root system and 4-6 true leaves; stem is tender and herbaceous
Water regularly to establish roots; provide support structure; protect from strong winds; apply light fertilizer monthly
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksVine extends rapidly with increasing stem length and feathery foliage; plant gains vigor and size
Train vines along support structure; prune to encourage branching; fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer; maintain consistent moisture
Flowering Initiation
3-4 weeksFlower buds appear at stem tips and leaf axils; plant begins developing terminal clusters
Reduce nitrogen slightly; increase phosphorus and potassium with flowering fertilizer; continue adequate watering; maintain full sun exposure
Flowering
8-16 weeks (spring through fall)Spectacular tubular scarlet-red flowers in dense clusters bloom; flowers are slightly scented; attracts pollinators
Maintain consistent moisture; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; provide support as weight increases; monitor for pests
Post-Flowering & Dormancy
2-4 monthsFlowering slows in cooler months; plant enters semi-dormancy; growth slows significantly
Reduce watering frequency; minimize fertilizer; prune lightly to maintain shape; in frost-prone areas, prepare for protection or container relocation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; rinse foliage regularly
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; apply neem oil spray; improve air circulation
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Manually remove; apply horticultural oil during dormancy; treat with neem oil as needed
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Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap; use yellow sticky traps; increase air circulation
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Hand-pick if few; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for larger infestations
Uses
Ornamental flowers for arrangements
CulinaryThe vibrant scarlet flower clusters are prized in floral arrangements and tropical-themed bouquets. Their long-lasting blooms add dramatic color to cut-flower displays. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe tubular scarlet flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent plant for wildlife gardens and ecological landscaping. [source]
Landscape and garden structure
HouseholdThe vigorous vine provides excellent coverage for pergolas, arbors, trellises, fences, and walls, creating tropical ambiance and vertical interest in warm-climate gardens. [source]
Traditional African medicine
MedicinalIn West African traditional medicine, various Combretum species have been used to treat inflammatory conditions and support general wellness, though scientific validation is ongoing. [source]
Dried flower preservation
CraftThe dried flower clusters retain their color remarkably well and can be used in dried arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Combretum coccineum is not harvested for consumption. Cut flowering stems for arrangements once flowers have fully opened; flowers last 7-10 days in a vase. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage more flowering.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Combretum coccineum is native to the savanna and woodland regions of West Africa, particularly Guinea and Sierra Leone, where it grows as a wild climbing vine.
- 🌱 The scientific name 'coccineum' comes from the Latin word for scarlet or crimson red, perfectly describing the plant's most striking characteristic.
- 🌱 In tropical regions, the vine can grow 20-30 feet or more, making it a powerful architectural plant for creating natural screens and living walls in one growing season.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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