Geography and distribution
Thunbergia laurifolia is native to India, Burma and Malaysia. It grows in moist areas at low elevations and requires a frost-free environment.
Thunbergia laurifolia (laurel clock vine) stems
Thunbergia laurifolia climbs using twining stems, which become woody with age.
It has been introduced to many tropical regions as an ornamental, but in countries such as Australia it is now considered an invasive weed (along with its close relative Thunbergia grandiflora). It smothers native vegetation and is therefore considered a threat to Australia’s biodiversity in several areas including remnant tropical rainforests across northern Australia.