Harlequin Glorybower
clerodendrum trichotomum
Also known as: ["Fragrant Glorybower","Harlequin Glory Flower"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its fragrant flowers and striking blue berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Clerodendrum |
| Botanical Name: | Clerodendrum trichotomum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, protected from strong winds
- 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: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth to stimulate new blooms and vigor.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually to avoid leaf burn. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Indoor placement requires a bright, south-facing window with some direct light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, every 2 months in fall and winter
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or a standard potting mix with added grit.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage bushiness, and removal of dead or diseased wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or overcrowded growth. Best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
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 before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand to improve drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting, scorching, or flower bud drop in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows, leaves may yellow or drop, and flowering is reduced. Prolonged cold can damage stems and roots.
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Mulch heavily around the base for in-ground plants. Provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 25°F (-4°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop. Flower buds may abort, and overall vigor declines.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture. Avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall). Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicClerodendrum trichotomum berries are mildly toxic to cats, capable of inducing gastrointestinal discomfort and other mild symptoms. The plant's toxicity is not severe, but ingestion should be prevented.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Clerodendrum trichotomum are mildly toxic to dogs, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset and other mild symptoms. The toxic compounds are not highly concentrated, but ingestion should still be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClerodendrum trichotomum contains toxic compounds primarily in its berries, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Clerodendrum trichotomum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers and berries.
Q: Is Clerodendrum trichotomum toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown; it is advisable to keep pets away from the plant until further research is conducted.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Clerodendrum trichotomum?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring regular maintenance and attention to environmental conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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