Curtain Creeper/ Vernonia elaeagnifolia

Plant Details

• Scientific Name: Vernonia elaegnifolia (syn. Porana paniculata)

• Common Name: Curtain Creeper, Curtain Vine, Green Curtain

• Family: Asteraceae

• Type: Fast-growing perennial creeper

• Height/Spread: Can climb 10–20 ft with support, spreading wide

• Leaves: Small, oval, dense foliage

• Flowers: Small, white blooms (not very showy)

• Growth Habit: Vigorous climbing vine that trails down beautifully, forming a curtain-like effect

 Care Instructions

 Sunlight

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade.

• Full sun ensures dense growth and lush green foliage.

Watering

• Water 2–3 times per week in summer; less in winter.

• Keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging.

 Soil

• Grows well in well-drained loamy soil.

• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6–7).

• Add organic matter (compost, cow dung manure) for healthy growth.

 Fertilizer

• Use a balanced fertilizer (NPK 10:10:10 or 19:19:19) once a month during active growth (spring & monsoon).

• Organic options: Compost, vermicompost, or cow manure applied every 6–8 weeks.

• For denser foliage: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (like diluted urea or seaweed extract).

 Pruning & Training

• Prune regularly to control excessive growth.

• Train the plant on a wire, fence, pergola, or wall to form a curtain-like screen.

• Trimming encourages bushier growth.

 Uses

1. Ornamental:

   • Ideal for covering fences, walls, pergolas, balconies.

   • Creates a natural green curtain for privacy and shade.

2. Environmental:

   • Provides cooling effect and dust barrier in urban spaces.

   • Attracts small pollinators.

3. Low Maintenance:

   • Hardy and drought-tolerant once established.