Contents
Description
Clerodendrum Fortunatum is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly known as “Turk’s Turban” or “Cashmere Bouquet”. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. Its flowers are bright red, tubular, and have a unique shape resembling a turban.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Clerodendrum |
Appearance
Clerodendrum Fortunatum has a distinctive appearance with its large, glossy, dark green leaves and bright red tubular flowers that resemble a turban. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a bushy growth habit. The leaves are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip, measuring up to 15 cm in length. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of stems and are about 5 cm long. The plant’s bark is smooth and greyish in color.
Care Guide
Clerodendrum Fortunatum requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for its care:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect its growth.Hardiness Zones: Clerodendrum Fortunatum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clerodendrum Fortunatum is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies can infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.Diseases: The plant can be affected by root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Make sure to provide adequate ventilation and avoid overwatering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Clerodendrum Fortunatum is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar, and Thailand. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in forests, along riverbanks, and in gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Clerodendrum Fortunatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.Q: How often should I fertilize Clerodendrum Fortunatum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: Can Clerodendrum Fortunatum tolerate shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect its growth.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Clerodendrum Fortunatum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Clerodendrum Fortunatum:
- Clerodendrum inerme
- Clerodendrum paniculatum
- Clerodendrum splendens
- Clerodendrum thomsoniae
References
- Flowers of India. (n.d.). Clerodendrum Fortunatum. Retrieved from https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Turk%27s%20Turban.html
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Clerodendrum Fortunatum. Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/clerodendrum-fortunatum-turks-turban
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Clerodendrum Fortunatum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/111695/Clerodendrum-fortunatum/Details
