Harlequin Glorybower
clerodendron trichotomum
Also known as: ["Harlequin Glorybower","Three-Hoofed Glorybower"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its fragrant flowers and striking blue fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Clerodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Clerodendron trichotomum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. In hot regions, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogging; enrich annually with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may suffer in prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape plant; avoid excessive cutting.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaves in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged freezing can damage stems and roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from frost with a cover or move to a sheltered location if potted.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicClerodendron trichotomum berries are toxic to cats, leading to mild gastrointestinal disturbances and other symptoms. The toxic effects are generally localized to the digestive system, though more severe reactions may occur in some cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Clerodendron trichotomum are toxic to dogs, potentially causing mild gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract, though systemic effects are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClerodendron trichotomum contains toxic compounds, primarily in its berries, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, though more severe reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Clerodendron trichotomum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and fruits.
Q: Is Clerodendron trichotomum toxic to pets?
A: Information on toxicity to pets is unknown.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Clerodendron trichotomum?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring regular maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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