Mysore Clock Vine

Overview

Thunbergia mysorensis is a flowering species native to tropical South India. This species has naturalized in the Mediterranean climate and is widespread in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The species name "mysorensis" refers to the city of Mysore (now Mysuru) in South India, where Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore for 600 years. T. mysorensis is a popular houseplant in tropical gardens and greenhouse conservatories, which can attract songbirds and produce lots of nectar that attracts birds. T. mysorensis is considered one of the most beautiful vines in the world and has received the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Away of Garden Merit award in 1993. This species is also commonly used as a vine in canopies, gates, fences, as well as garage shade. In addition, traditionally, this species is believed by the community to have good health benefits. The flower parts ca also be used to produce a natural red color.

Vernacular Names

Kamanabillu balli (Kannada), Zumber thunbergia (Marathi).

Agroecology

Thunbergia mysorensis can be found growing in areas with an altitude range from near sea level to 750 m above sea level. Usually grows around the city or in old residential sites. This species likes open areas and can tolerate conditions of full sun or partial shade. Requires humus-rich soil and prefers well-drained acidic soil, and because it comes from a tropical monsoon climate, T. mysorensis will require plenty of watering during the summer. This species is also tolerant of colder climates.

Morphology

• Stems - woody, bare, twisted clockwise.
• Leaves - arranged opposite, dark green, shiny, narrow, lanceolate, pointed leaf tip (acuminate), toothed leaf edge, there are 3 clear leaf bones, glabrous.
• Flowers - Bilateral symmetrical tubular shape with a wide open mouth, consisting of five fused petals (crown). The tips of the red petals which are reflected to reveal the throat are yellow (along the edge and down the throat), and bloom from summer to fall. Large stamens and hairy pistil. Each flower is up to 5 cm long with striking red bracts. The inflorescence is an elongated pendant raceme, dangling, slender, emerging from the leaf axils.

Cultivation

• Propagated by seeds and stem cuttings.
• In its native area, Thunbergia mysorensis is pollinated by sunbirds.

Chemical Constituents

Alkaloids, amino acids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolics.

Traditional Medicinal Uses

• In India, used to treat coughs, jaundice, liver disease, fever.
• Studies have suggested antioxidant properties.