King’s Mantle (Thunbergia erecta)
King’s Mantle, or Thunbergia erecta, is a beautiful, evergreen flowering shrub native to tropical Africa. It’s appreciated for its striking, deep blue to purple, trumpet-shaped flowers with a bright yellow throat. Here’s how to grow and care for this lovely plant:
Overview
Scientific Name Thunbergia erecta
Common Name King’s Mantle, Neelkanth flower, bush clock vine
Plant Type Flowering Shrub
Sun Full sun to partial shade
Soil Well-drained fertile soil
Soil pH 6.0 and 7.5
Flower Color Violet-purple, or pale blue
Bloom time Summer and fall
Zone 9- 11
Growing Conditions King’s Mantle
Light: King’s Mantle thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming.
Soil: Plant it in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. An ideal pH range is typically slightly acidic to neutral, falling between 6.0 and 7.5.
Watering: Maintain moisture in the soil, but avoid water logging. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. In cooler months, reduce watering.
Temperature and Humidity: This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15-29°C) and high humidity. This plant is sensitive to frost so it should be protected from cold temperatures.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing as it may reduce blooming.
Bush clock vine Care Tips:
Pruning: it is recommended to prune lightly to maintain the desired shape and promote denser growth. Regularly remove any dead or damaged branches, this will encourage additional flowers.
Pests and Diseases: King’s Mantle is pest-free but watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To get rid of bugs in your plants, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure your plants have enough air around them to stop fungus from growing.
Propagation: Propagate via softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Plant the cuttings in a mixture of sand and peat in warm, humid conditions.
Container Growing: King’s Mantle can also be grown in pots. To plant this plant, choose a large container with good drainage and fill it with a good-quality potting mix. Repot again every 2-3 years when the plant outgrows.
By providing the right conditions and care, King’s Mantle will reward you with its vibrant blooms, adding a tropical touch to your garden or patio.
Happy gardening.
Read also:
How to grow Passionflowers. 8 Gardening Tools for Beginners. How to Grow Gaillardia Flowers . 12 Best Plants Grow From Cuttings . Growing and planting Freesia flowers.
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