Overview

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' is a shrub, climber deciduous shrub in the genus Clerodendrum, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 6.0 m tall. Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include ornamental shrub and garden specimen. It is native to China.

About

Clerodendrum trichotomum, the harlequin glorybower, glorytree or peanut butter tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, India, and the Philippines.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clerodendrum trichotomum

About the genus

Clerodendrum is a genus of flowering plants formerly placed in the family Verbenaceae, but now considered to belong to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Its common names include glorybower, bagflower, pagoda flower and bleeding-heart. It is currently classified in the subfamily Ajugoideae, being one of several genera transferred from Verbenaceae to Lamiaceae in the 1990s, based on phylogenetic analysis of morphological and molecular data.

Wikipedia contributors, "Clerodendrum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clerodendrum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Clerodendrum

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Deciduous shrub
Habit
Shrub, climber
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
6.0 m
Suggested uses
Ornamental shrub, garden specimen
Native to
China
Fragrance
Sweet, vanilla-like fragrance from flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii'

Cultivation
Prefers sheltered position, well-drained soil, tolerates some drought once established
Pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood
Propagation
Softwood cuttings in summer, seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Verticillium wilt

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii'?

Prefers sheltered position, well-drained soil, tolerates some drought once established.

Where is the best place to plant Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii'?

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' need?

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii'?

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.

How big does Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' grow?

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' reaches a height of 6.0 m.

Is Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' hardy in the UK?

Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Clerodendrum trichotomum 'Fargesii'?

Softwood cuttings in summer, seed.

From the Fenn Plants journal