Thunbergia Laurifolia

Thunbergia laurifolia, commonly called Laurel Clockvine or Blue Trumpet Vine, is a fast-growing, woody, evergreen climber from the Acanthaceae family. It produces clusters of showy, pale-blue to lavender trumpet-shaped flowers with a pale-yellow throat, set against glossy lance-shaped foliage, making it a favourite for vertical greening in Indian gardens.

Native to India and Southeast Asia, it thrives in the warm, humid conditions found across much of the country. Once established it grows rapidly and can quickly drape over pergolas, arches, fences and trellises, offering dense shade and near year-round bloom in frost-free regions.

It is well suited to large garden spaces where its vigorous habit can be guided over sturdy supports, and it responds well to regular pruning to keep it within bounds.

Specifications

Care guide

Uses

• Covering pergolas, arches, trellises, fences and boundary walls
• Creating shade over patios and garden seating areas
• Screening for privacy and softening unsightly structures
• Attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden

Growing tips

Plant at the onset of the monsoon (June-July) so the vine establishes quickly with natural rainfall. Provide a strong, permanent support from the start, as the mature vine becomes heavy and woody.

In peak summer, mulch the root zone and water deeply to keep roots cool. After the main bloom, prune hard to keep it manageable and to trigger a fresh flush of growth and flowers. In northern India, protect young plants from winter cold.