Bengal Clock Vine

(Thunbergia grandiflora)

Bengal Clock Vine (Thunbergia grandiflora)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Thunbergia grandiflora image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Thunbergia grandiflora, commonly known as Bengal Clock Vine or Bengal Trumpet, is a vigorous evergreen vine in warmer climates but may become deciduous in cooler areas. It is native to forested regions of India, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia, where it thrives in open woodlands and forest edges, often climbing over other vegetation. This plant can reach up to 20 meters in height and is known for its extensive root system with a deep taproot. The large, showy flowers are sky blue to mauve and feature a pale yellow throat, measuring about 8 cm across with a 4 cm long tube. The blooming period extends from summer to fall, and the flowers are followed by seed pods that explosively release seeds over several meters. Additionally, it can propagate vegetatively from stem segments.

Bengal Clock Vine is valued for its rapid growth and large, attractive flowers, making it popular for trellises, arbors, and fences in tropical and subtropical gardens. It requires a minimum temperature of 10–13 °C (50–55 °F) and is often grown as a houseplant in temperate regions. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, consistent moisture, and well-draining soil. While it can be a stunning addition to the garden, Thunbergia grandiflora is considered invasive in some areas, such as the Caribbean and northern South America, due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete native flora. Gardeners should check local regulations before planting and manage growth to prevent escape into natural areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 15-30 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Forest edges and open woodlands in India, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Bengal Clockvine , Clockvine , Skyflower , Skyvine , Blue Skyflower , Blue Thunbergia , Blue Trumpetvine , Bengalische Thunbergie , Tumbérgia-Azul , Brisa De La Manana

Scientific Names: Thunbergia grandiflora , Thunbergia grandiflora f. alba , Thunbergia chinensis , Thunbergia grandiflora f. citrina , Thunbergia cordifolia , Flemingia grandiflora , Flemingia racemosa , Pleuremidis grandiflora , Thunbergia malvifolia , Thunbergia talbotiae , Thunbergia talbotii

GBIF Accepted Name: Thunbergia grandiflora (Roxb. ex Rottler) Roxb.