About
Clerodendrum trichotomum is a deciduous shrub or small tree characterized by its variable simple leaves, which are typically larger on younger specimens. The lower leaves may exhibit deep lobing towards the tip. From mid-summer to autumn, this plant produces fragrant flowers in elongated cymes that emerge from the leaf axils of the upper foliage. The flowers feature white corollas surrounded by a reddish calyx that intensifies in color as the fruit matures in the fall. Initially, the berries are bright blue, transitioning to black as they ripen, creating a notable contrast with the red 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, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Far East
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in humus-rich moist soil in a sheltered position in sun or partial shade
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by root cuttings or semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs, glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)