Mysore Trumpet Vine (Thunbergia Mysorensis)
The Mysore Trumpet Vine (Thunbergia mysorensis), or the Lady's Slipper Vine, is a native of the Western Ghats of India and is often hailed as the most spectacular flowering climber in existence. It is world-renowned for its long, pendulous racemes that hang down like floral chandeliers. Each individual flower is a work of art, featuring deep maroon-to-purple bracts and a bright yellow "slipper" center. With its lush, lance-shaped evergreen foliage and a vigorous climbing habit, it transforms any garden into a tropical palace, particularly when its blooms hang at eye level from an overhead structure.
Light
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Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In the scorching heat of the Indian plains, it performs best with bright morning sun and dappled afternoon shade. If kept in full shade, it will produce plenty of leaves but very few of its iconic flower chandeliers.
Watering
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Requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the flowering season. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely. However, ensure the drainage is excellent; it prefers a "tropical rainforest" environment where water moves through the soil quickly.
Soil & Fertilizer
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Prefers rich, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. Use a mix of garden soil, leaf mold, and compost. Feed with a balanced organic liquid fertilizer every 15–20 days during the growing season (Spring and Monsoon) to fuel its rapid growth and heavy blooming.
Leaf Burn (Brown Tips)
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Usually caused by very dry air or scorching afternoon sun. Increase humidity by misting the foliage or providing a little more shade during the hottest part of the day.
Few Flower Clusters
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Ensure the plant is receiving enough light and that you aren't over-fertilizing with high-nitrogen products. A dose of phosphorus-rich fertilizer in early spring can help trigger more buds.
📋 Quick Plant Profile
| Botanical Name | Thunbergia mysorensis |
| Common Names | Mysore Trumpet Vine, Lady's Slipper Vine |
| Flower Description | Deep maroon/red with bright yellow centers; hanging racemes |
| Native Habitat | Western Ghats, India |
| Light Needs | Full Sun to Dappled Shade |
| Blooming Season | Winter to Spring (Peak), off-and-on year-round |
| Ideal For | High Pergolas, Large Arches, Covered Walkways |