Quisqualis Indica
Quisqualis indica (syn. Combretum indicum)
Quisqualis indica, the Rangoon Creeper, is a vigorous tropical vine celebrated for flowers that transform from white to pink to red as they mature. Deeply symbolic of love, transformation, and feminine elegance, it is cherished across South and Southeast Asia.
Combretaceae (White Mangrove family)
Spring through summer; most fragrant at night
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: roses and phalaenopsiss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In India, the Rangoon Creeper is known as Madhumalati, a name associated with love and devotion in classical poetry and folklore. It adorns courtyards, archways, and temple gardens as a living expression of affection. In Thai culture, the flower is revered as a symbol of feminine grace and is celebrated in art and literature. Its color-changing flowers, moving from white at dusk to pink and finally red by the third day, are seen as a metaphor for the deepening and ripening of love over time.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; blooms best with ample direct sunlight
Water
Regular watering for best growth; tolerates some drought once established but prefers consistent moisture
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Moist, Adaptable to various soil types
Expert Growing Tips
Provide a strong support structure early, as the vine grows vigorously and becomes heavy
Plant in full sun for the most prolific flowering
Water regularly but ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot
Prune after the main blooming period to manage size and encourage fresh growth
In USDA zones 10-11 only; bring container plants indoors in frost-prone areas
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Trained over arbors, trellises, pergolas, and gazebos for dramatic floral displays
- Used as a natural fence or screen in tropical gardens
- Container specimen with support in frost-prone regions
- Cut flowers and garlands in South and Southeast Asian floral traditions
- Vertical garden plant prized for multi-color flower clusters
Traditional Uses
- Seeds used traditionally in Ayurvedic and folk medicine as an anthelmintic (to expel intestinal worms)
- Root and seed preparations used in Southeast Asian folk medicine for fever and skin irritation
- Bark and leaves applied topically in some traditional remedies for anti-inflammatory purposes
- Flowers used in cooling tonics in Myanmar and Thailand to reduce mild fevers
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Quisqualis Indica
Why does the Rangoon Creeper flower change color?
Rangoon Creeper flowers open white at dusk on the first day to attract night-flying hawk moths, then turn pink on the second day and red on the third. This color shift is a strategy to signal to different pollinators which flowers have nectar available, attracting birds and bees during daylight hours.
What does the Rangoon Creeper symbolize?
The Rangoon Creeper symbolizes love, transformation, and beauty. In Indian culture, it represents devotion and passionate affection. Its gradual color change from white to red is widely seen as a symbol of love deepening over time.
Is Quisqualis indica the same as Combretum indicum?
Yes. The plant was previously classified as Quisqualis indica but was later reclassified to Combretum indicum. Both names refer to the same plant, the Rangoon Creeper. The older name Quisqualis indica is still widely used in horticulture and common reference.
How fast does Rangoon Creeper grow?
Rangoon Creeper is a vigorous, fast-growing vine. Under ideal tropical conditions with full sun and regular water, it can reach 25 to 30 feet in length and establishes quickly when given a supportive structure to climb.
Is Rangoon Creeper fragrant?
Yes, the flowers of Rangoon Creeper are notably fragrant, with a sweet, fruity scent that is strongest at night. The evening fragrance is designed to attract hawk moths, while the daytime scent draws bees and birds as the flower color deepens.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Rose
Rosa spp.
Roses are the quintessential symbol of love and beauty, featuring layered petals and intoxicating fragrance. With over 300 species, roses represent the full spectrum of human emotions and have been cherished across cultures for millennia.
Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis spp.
Phalaenopsis, beloved as moth orchids for their resemblance to tropical moths in flight, are the world's most popular orchids. With elegant arching sprays of long-lasting blooms, they symbolize love, refinement, beauty, and the delicate grace of nature taking wing.
Lily (True Lily)
Lilium spp.
True lilies (Lilium) are elegant, often fragrant flowers grown from bulbs, prized for their large, showy blooms. They symbolize purity, beauty, and refined love.