Keebler's Glory

clerodendrum infortunatum

Also known as: ["Keebler's Glory","Fortune Clerodendrum"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Clerodendrum Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to the Himalayas, known for its vibrant red flowers and aromatic foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Clerodendrum
Botanical Name: Clerodendrum infortunatum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered garden bed
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, but beneficial during dry periods or in low humidity 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: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, 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).

Use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth.

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 prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut just above a leaf node or bud, angle cuts to promote healing, remove crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/damaged growth, shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and potential dehydration in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, stop in dormant period.

Fertilizing Method

Use 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

Yellow leaves in Clerodendrum infortunatum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Clerodendrum infortunatum can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Clerodendrum infortunatum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, reducing photosynthetic area and potentially leading to defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Clerodendrum infortunatum due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Clerodendrum infortunatum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects in cats if ingested. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Clerodendrum infortunatum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and other mild systemic effects. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Clerodendrum infortunatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical advice.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Clerodendrum infortunatum toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Clerodendrum infortunatum?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Clerodendrum infortunatum 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
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Greek Sage
View
Acanthus-leaved Jerusalem Sage
View
Mountain Tea
View
Short-toothed Mountain Mint
View