Natal Clock Vine Plant Care

Natal Clock Vine (Thunbergia natalensis) belongs to the Acanthaceae family within the Thunbergia genus. Natal Clock Vine is native to parts of mainland Africa, including South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Natal Clock Vine is also known as Natal Trumpet Vine.

Natal Clock Vine displays a vining, trailing growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 6 ft. Natal Clock Vine produces tubular flowers in various colors like yellow, orange, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Thunbergia natalensis requires watering every 5–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Natal Clock Vine thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Natal Clock Vine in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Thunbergia natalensis grows best at temperatures of 65–80°F. Natal Clock Vine prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, fertile soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Natal Clock Vine to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Natal Clock Vine every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot annually in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Natal Clock Vine can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to black eyed susan vine plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Natal Clock Vine is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Natal Clock Vine grows outdoors in USDA Zone 8b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 8b. Natal Clock Vine is native to parts of mainland Africa, including South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Malawi and Zimbabwe.