Contents
Description
Clerodendrum Trichotomum, commonly known as Harlequin Glorybower or Peanut Butter Tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. This plant is native to China, Japan, and Korea, and it grows up to 20 feet tall with a spread of 15 feet. The leaves are ovate, dark green, and have a strong, pleasant scent. The flowers of the Clerodendrum Trichotomum are fragrant white or pink and bloom in late summer. The fruit is an attractive, bright blue drupe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Clerodendrum |
Appearance
Clerodendrum Trichotomum has a beautiful and unique appearance. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, measuring 3-6 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green and glossy, while the lower surface is a paler green. The leaf has a strong, pleasant scent that is reminiscent of peanut butter when crushed. The flower of the Clerodendrum Trichotomum is a fragrant, white or pink, tubular-shaped bloom that measures 1 inch in length. The fruit is an attractive, bright blue drupe that measures 0.5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Clerodendrum Trichotomum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clerodendrum Trichotomum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by the following:- Scale insects- Spider mites- Powdery mildew- Leaf spotTo prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by following the care guide and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Clerodendrum Trichotomum is native to China, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in forests, thickets, and along streams. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Clerodendrum Trichotomum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Clerodendrum Trichotomum?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Can I grow Clerodendrum Trichotomum in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth, and use well-draining soil.
Q: What is the height and spread of Clerodendrum Trichotomum?
A: The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall with a spread of 15 feet.
Related Plants
– Clerodendrum bungei- Clerodendrum splendens- Clerodendrum thomsoniae- Clerodendrum indicum
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291056- The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/clerodendrum-trichotomum-3269670- NC State Extension, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/clerodendrum-trichotomum/
