Combretum fruticosum

The Orange Flame Vine, Combretum fruticosum, is a large shrub or vine native to South America. It can grow up to 20 feet tall, and has a vigorous twining habit. It requires full sun for optimal growth and should be regularly watered. This vine is known for its profusion of showy red, crimson and vinous flowers, which are 4-6 inches long and slightly curved. During the spring and summer, these blooms are frequented by butterflies and hummingbirds.

This tropical vine is also known for its unique yellow and orange flowers, which appear in the late summer and autumn months. It is a fairly easy plant to care for, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. In colder regions, this plant can be grown in a pot and should be brought indoors during the winter. The mature plant is cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time. It is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.

For the best results, it is important to regularly fertilize and prune this plant. As it flowers on new growth, pruning should be done after the flowering period. During the summer months, this plant should be watered every week. In the winter months, give it less water as its growth slows considerably. Additionally, be sure to plant it in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-drained to promote healthy growth.

Similar plants:

• Combretum apiculatum (Red Bushwillow)
• Combretum aubletii (Monkey's brush)
• Combretum caffrum (Riverbushwillow, African bush willow, Cape Bushwillow, Bushveld willow)
• Combretum constrictum (Thailand Powderpuff, Ball of Fire)
• Combretum erythrophyllum (Bush willow)
• Combretum grandiflorum (Showy combretum)
• Combretum indicum, Quisqualis indica (Rangoon Creeper, Burma Creeper, Chinese Honeysuckle)
• Combretum kraussii (Forest Bushwillow )
• Combretum microphyllum, Combretum paniculatum subsp. microphyllum (Flame Creeper, Burning Bush)
• Combretum padoides (Thicket Bushwillow)