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Description
Clerodendrum Speciosissimum, also known as glory bower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. This plant is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It produces large, showy clusters of fragrant, bright red flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Clerodendrum |
| Species: | Speciosissimum |
Appearance
The Clerodendrum Speciosissimum has a beautiful appearance with lush, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and have pointed tips. The flowers are bright red, tubular, and have a white center. The plant blooms in summer and autumn and produces a large number of flowers. The flowers are followed by small, black, berry-like fruits that contain seeds. The plant has a bushy and spreading growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Here are some tips on how to care for your Clerodendrum Speciosissimum plant:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, and do not let it dry out between waterings. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Clerodendrum Speciosissimum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a location that receives bright indirect sunlight or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Clerodendrum Speciosissimum is hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clerodendrum Speciosissimum is prone to some pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaf distortion and yellowing. Use an insecticidal soap or spray to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests are common in dry conditions and can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and can be controlled with a fungicide.
Habitat
Clerodendrum Speciosissimum is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It prefers warm, humid climates and can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-11. In cooler regions, it can be grown as an indoor plant in a bright, sunny location.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Clerodendrum Speciosissimum plant poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: How often should I prune my Clerodendrum Speciosissimum plant?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can the Clerodendrum Speciosissimum plant be grown as a hedge?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown as a hedge with regular pruning.
Q: How big can the Clerodendrum Speciosissimum plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Clerodendrum bungei
- Clerodendrum chinense
- Clerodendrum paniculatum
- Clerodendrum thomsoniae
References
- “Clerodendrum speciosissimum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287306&isprofile=0&basic=Clerodendrum%20speciosissimum.
- “Clerodendrum speciosissimum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed September 13, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/clerodendrum-speciosissimum.
- “Clerodendrum speciosissimum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 13, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101375/Clerodendrum-speciosissimum/Details.
