Growing Combretum Indicum in India

Combretum Indicum is one of the most beautiful flowering vines that also does really well in the Indian climate. Here’s how to grow it.

If you’re looking to add a tasteful and vibrant touch to your home’s garden, you’ll want to consider Combretum Indicum. This species of shrub is native to tropical climates and adds an eye-catching pop of deep hues to your garden. Learn how to care for and cultivate this unique flowering shrub in your very own garden!

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About Combretum Indicum

Combretum indicum is a small, shrubby tree native to tropical areas of India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It is also commonly known as Rangoon Creeper, Indian bush-cherry, bakain, or malsur. It has fragrant leaves and pink, yellow, or scarlet flowers that bloom from November to February.

The flowers are borne in clusters at the end of the stems and have a sweet, fruity fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various respiratory and flatulence-related issues as well as in treating digestive and liver problems.

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How to Propagate Combretum Indicum

Propagating Combretum indicum can be done through seeds and cuttings.

From Cuttings:

Take cuttings from healthy, mature stems in late spring or early summer.
Remove all the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the cutting, then dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder.
Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Place the pot in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
After a few weeks, the cuttings should take root and begin to grow.

From Seeds:

In late spring or early summer, collect the seeds from the plant or purchase them from a nursery.
Soak the seeds in warm water overnight, then plant them in well-draining soil.
Place the pot in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Once the seedlings sprout, thin them out so that only the strongest remain.
Water the seedlings regularly and transplant them when they are large enough.

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Requirements to Grow Combretum Indicum

Sunlight

Combretum indicum requires full sun to grow and thrive. It is a sun-loving plant that needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas with hot summers, the plant can benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day to avoid heat stress.

If you want the best flowers, avoid growing Combretum indicum in shade.

Soil

Combretum indicum grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0-7.5. A soil mix with a high percentage of sand, along with organic matter like compost, can provide good drainage and fertility.

Avoid waterlogged soils, as these can lead to root rot.

Water

The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water Combretum indicum deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. In general, the plant prefers slightly moist soil.

Temperature and Humidity

Combretum indicum is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to grow and thrive. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 10°C to 40°C, but it prefers temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.

The plant can be sensitive to cold temperatures and frost, so it is not recommended for areas with extended periods of cold weather.

It prefers a humid environment, but it can tolerate lower levels of humidity. If you live in a dry climate, mist Combretum indicum regularly to increase humidity levels.

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Combretum Indicum Care

Fertilizer

Combretum indicum benefits from regular fertilization to support healthy growth and blooming. Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season to provide continuous nutrition.

Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced blooming.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Combretum indicum, but it can help to promote bushier growth and increase blooming. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth appears, removing any dead or damaged branches and thinning out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

You can also pinch back the tips of the branches to encourage lateral growth.

Pest and Diseases

Combretum indicum is generally a hardy plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.

Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, such as sticky leaves, white or yellow spots, or webbing. If you notice any signs of pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Combretum indicum can also be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering, provide good air circulation around the plant, and remove any dead or infected plant material promptly.