Clerodendrum trichotomum

RHS Plant Profile
harlequin glorybower
Shrubs

A deciduous large shrub or small tree with variable simple leaves, larger on young plants, the lower ones sometimes deeply two- ot three-lobed towards the apex. Fragrant flowers are produced from midsummer to autumn in long-stalked cymes from the axils of the upper leaves. Corolla white, in a reddish calyx, which deepens in colour as the fruits ripen in autumn. Berries bright blue at first, ultimately black, contrasting with the red calyces

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Clerodendrum can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, trees or climbers, with simple, often unpleasantly scented, leaves and panicles of usually fragrant salver-shaped flowers with prominent stamens, followed by small berries
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Far East

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in humus-rich moist soil in a sheltered position in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by root cuttings or semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs, glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)