Orange Flame Vine

(Combretum fruticosum)

Orange Flame Vine (Combretum fruticosum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Combretum fruticosum, commonly known as Orange Flame Vine or Chameleon Vine, is a semi-deciduous vine native to open woodlands and forest edges in Central and South America. It can grow as a shrub reaching up to 3 meters (9.8 ft) in height without support, or as a vine up to 11 meters (36 ft) with support. The plant features elongated leaves and produces showy, tubular flowers that are yellowish to reddish, appearing in dense axillary spikes 8 to 16 cm long during the summer months. The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies.

Orange Flame Vine is valued for its ornamental flowers, which add a tropical flair to gardens. It is often used for trellises, fences, and arbors due to its climbing habit. In cultivation, it requires full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering, being somewhat drought-tolerant once established. While it can be a beautiful addition to the garden, it is potentially invasive in some regions outside its native range, so gardeners should check local regulations before planting. It is also susceptible to leaf spot and can be affected by scale insects and spider mites.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 6-8 feet
  • Width: 6-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Orange
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands and forest edges in Central and South America

Other Names

Common Names: Orange Flame Vine, Cipo-Pincel, Escova De Macaco, Escova De Macaco, Mafumbo Ou Mofumbo, Pente De Macaco

Scientific Names: , Combretum fruticosum, Combretum laxum, Combretum secundum, Combretum gloriosum, Combretum loeflingii, Combretum micropetalum, Combretum multidiscum, Combretum lepidopetalum, Combretum aurantiacum

GBIF Accepted Name: Combretum fruticosum (Loefl.) Stuntz