About

Clerodendrum thomsoniae is an evergreen vine that can reach heights of up to 4 meters. It features twining stems adorned with ovate foliage and produces terminal clusters of flowers that measure approximately 10 centimeters in diameter. The blooms are crimson and set off by prominent white calyces.

About the genus

Clerodendrum encompasses a range of growth forms, including deciduous or evergreen shrubs, trees, and climbing plants. The leaves are typically simple and may emit an undesirable odor. Flowers are borne in panicles and are generally fragrant, characterized by their salver-shaped structure and noticeable stamens. After flowering, these plants produce small berries.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H1B

Plant details

Plant type
Climber Wall Shrub, Conservatory Greenhouse
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Patio and container plants
Native to
Trop. W Africa

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow outdoors in warm, sheltered frost-free area. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun and good ventilation in the summer
Pruning
Pruning group 11
Propagation
Propagate by seed, semi-hardwood and root cuttings
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to mealybugs, glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)