About

This robust deciduous shrub can reach heights of up to 6 meters. It features broad, oval-shaped leaves and produces intensely fragrant white blossoms, which are held in green calyces that transition to a deep crimson as the turquoise berries ripen.

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
W China
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)