Umbellate Glorybower
clerodendrum umbellatum
Also known as: ["Umbellate Glorybower","Clerodendrum umbellatum"]
Overview
A tropical shrub with clusters of small, fragrant white flowers and ovate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Clerodendrum |
| Botanical Name: | Clerodendrum umbellatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor garden in sheltered, partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid excessive cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun, with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Monitor room temperature; avoid placing near vents or doors; maintain consistent warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering is also effective for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium or water.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand; water propagation is also viable.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune selectively; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress; wilting can signal cold or heat shock.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid placing near cold windows or drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; high temperatures with low humidity stress the plant.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicClerodendrum umbellatum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects in cats if ingested. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic but should still be kept out of reach.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Clerodendrum umbellatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects. While generally not severe, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClerodendrum umbellatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild systemic effects when ingested. The plant's toxic effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clerodendrum umbellatum toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: How often should I water Clerodendrum umbellatum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Clerodendrum umbellatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun, wit |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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