Rangoon creeper: Chinese honeysuckle
Rangoon creeper: Chinese honeysuckle
Rangoon creeper, also called Chinese honeysuckle or Combretum indicum.
Chinese honeysuckle (Combretum indicum), also called Rangoon creeper or Quisqualis indica, is a beautiful tropical vine known for its clusters of fragrant flowers that change colour from white to pink to red as they age. It’s a hardy plant but thrives best with the right care.
Sunlight
- Full sun (at least 6 hours daily) encourages the most abundant flowering.
- It can tolerate partial shade, but the blooms may be fewer and less vibrant.
Soil
- Prefers well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
- Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils—these can cause root rot.
- Ideal pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season (spring through summer).
- Reduce watering slightly in cooler months, but don’t let it dry out completely.
- Mulching helps retain moisture and control weeds.
Fertilizing
- Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 14-14-14).
- Too much nitrogen = lush leaves but fewer flowers.
- Add compost or organic matter at the base once or twice a year.
Pruning
- Prune after flowering to control its vigorous growth and encourage branching.
- Remove old, weak, or tangled stems.
- For young plants, pinch off tips to promote bushiness.
- It can be pruned heavily to shape as a hedge, arch, or trellis climber.
Support
- Provide a strong trellis, fence, or pergola—the vine grows fast and can get heavy.
- Guide new shoots early to train the shape you want.
Pests & Problems
- Generally, pest-resistant, but watch for:
- Aphids or mealybugs → spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Powdery mildew if air circulation is poor.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root diseases.
Climate
- Best suited for tropical and subtropical regions (USDA zones 9–11).
- In cooler climates, grow in containers so you can move it indoors during winter.
Propagation
- Easily propagated by stem cuttings or layering.
- Semi-hardwood cuttings root well in moist sand or perlite.
Extra Tips
- Flowers open in the evening and release a strong, sweet fragrance at night—perfect near patios or windows.
- Attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
- Regular pruning and feeding keep it blooming continuously through the warm months.
