Thunbergia erecta (King's Mantle)

Botanical name: Thunbergia erecta

Common names: King's Mantle, Bush Clock Vine

Family: Acanthaceae

Origin: Tropical Africa

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Thunbergia erecta (King's Mantle) grows between 5-10 ft tall and has a spreading habit. This makes it suitable to create a low growing hedge. Thunbergia erecta prefers a sunny site but will tolerate partial shade. It likes a moderately moist soil and will attract butterflies and hummingbirds for its profusion of stunning blue, lavender, and purple flowers. It also has a white or off-white cultivar with smaller leaves . This large shrub is remarkably hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 30F for short periods of time. The plant is recommended for USDA Zones 9-11 and if you live in a colder region can be grown in pots.

For growing healthy Thunbergia erecta provide it with right care. When planted outdoors, keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, and use mulch around the base to retain moisture. If growing in a pot, frequent watering is necessary. Avoid overfertilizing as this can lead to foliage growth with fewer flowers. Pruning and shaping can be done at any time, however, be mindful of your pruning as this can affect flowering. In colder climates, winter protection may be necessary.

Similar plants: Thunbergia erecta (King's Mantle)

• Gardenia thunbergia (White Gardenia)
• Thunbergia alata (Black - eyed Susan)
• Thunbergia battiscombei (Bengal Clock Vine)
• Thunbergia coccinea (Scarlet Thunbergia)
• Thunbergia fragrans (White Clock Vine)
• Thunbergia grandiflora (Blue Trumpet Vine)
• Thunbergia gregorii (Orange Clock Vine)
• Thunbergia kirkii (Blue Sky Shrub)
• Thunbergia laurifolia (Blue Trumpet Vine)
• Thunbergia mysorensis (Clock Vine)