Overview
Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke, also known as "Harlequin Glorybower," is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. This stunning shrub is native to southwestern China and was first discovered by botanist David Prain in 1894.
Appearance
The Harlequin Glorybower is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 meters (about 20 feet) tall. Its leaves are oval-shaped and grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) long. The flowers are showy and appear in clusters of up to 20 blooms. Each bloom has white and pink petals that form a tubular shape, with a 5-lobed corolla and long stamens which add to the ornamental value of the plant. The blooms are followed by dark blue to black, small, dry fruits held in spherical bunches that are liked by birds, hence its secondary common name of Bag Flower.
Common Names
The plant is known by multiple names like Harlequin Glorybower which is one of the most popular common names but it is also known as Blue Butterfly Bush, Bagflower, and Bleeding Glory Bower and Chinese Urn plant.
Uses
The plant has horticultural and medicinal uses. The plant is perfect for landscaping and is often used as an ornamental plant, mainly due to its beautiful fragrant flowers. The flowers can also be used as cut flowers in floral arrangements. The plant has a medicinal side as well, and some herbal medicines are prepared from its leaves, bark, and roots to treat high blood pressure and respiratory ailments.
Growth Conditions of Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke
Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke is a relatively easy plant to grow, and it generally requires minimal attention. Here are some of the growth conditions that this plant needs to thrive:
Light
This plant requires partial to full sun exposure to maintain a healthy growth. It can tolerate bright shade, but prolonged lower light intensities might impact growth negatively. It is essential to ensure that it receives sufficient light during the growing season, as it can affect the blooming of the flowers.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for the growth of Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke ranges from warm to hot. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 18 °C to 32 °C (64 °F to 90 °F) without any problems. However, you must protect it from extremely cold temperatures because this can cause damage to the plant and inhibit growth.
Soil Requirements
Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke grows best in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7. Soil that is too alkaline can cause the plant's leaves to turn yellow, and the plant may not flower as it should. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its texture, retain moisture, and enhance its nutrient value.
It is essential to note that Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke can also grow well in containers. However, you must ensure that you choose a pot with adequate drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. Place the pot in an area where it gets ample sunlight and the soil consistency is maintained.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum dalei Moldenke, commonly referred to as Bleeding Heart Vine, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity levels for optimal growth. It is best planted in bright, indirect sunlight, in well-draining soil.
When planting, ensure that the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. Bleeding Heart Vine tends to have an extensive root system, and a pot that is too small could inhibit its growth.
Watering Needs
Bleeding Heart Vine requires consistent watering to maintain healthy growth. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot.
In high-temperature environments, Bleeding Heart Vine may require more frequent watering, while in cooler temperatures, it may require less frequent watering.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and blooming, Bleeding Heart Vine requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, during the growing season from spring to fall. Fertilize the plant every two weeks to ensure that it receives sufficient nutrients.
Reducing fertilization during the winter months will help to promote a period of rest that will encourage healthy growth in the following spring.
Pruning
A well-maintained Bleeding Heart Vine requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. Prune lightly during the growing season to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Severe pruning should be done in the winter or early spring when the plant is in a dormant phase. This will help to stimulate new growth and encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke
Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke can be collected and sown during the spring or early summer months. The seeds are usually sown in well-drained soil and kept moist until germination occurs. It is also recommended to provide a warm and humid environment for the seeds to enhance their germination rate.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings taken from the softwood of Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke can be propagated easily. The cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and taken from the upper portion of the plant. The cuttings are then planted in a well-drained soil mix, and kept moist and warm until roots begin to develop. This process usually takes around 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is also an effective method of propagating Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke. This involves wounding a small portion of the plant's stem and covering it with moist sphagnum moss, followed by wrapping it with plastic or any other material to keep it moist. After a few weeks, roots will begin to develop, and the rooted stem can then be cut off from the main plant and transplanted into a pot or a new location in the garden.
Overall, propagation of Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke is relatively straightforward and can be achieved using any of the above methods. The success rate for each method may vary, with air layering being the most reliable method of propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke
Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke, commonly known as Bleeding Glory Bower or Java Glory Bower, is a beautiful tropical shrub that can grow up to 8 to 10 feet tall. As with any plant, it is essential to keep the plant healthy to prevent diseases and pests. However, if the plant is affected by any pests or diseases, it can be treated effectively using the following methods.
Common Diseases
The most common disease in Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke is leaf spot, which manifests as small spots on the leaves' surface and can cause them to drop prematurely. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overwatering the plant and keep the leaves dry as much as possible.
If leaf spot already exists in your plant, you can apply a fungicide to prevent further spread. Copper-based fungicide can be effective in treating this disease. Make sure to remove all infected leaves and clean the surrounding area thoroughly to prevent reinfection.
Common Pests
Aphids are the most common pests that can affect Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke. These tiny insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems. To prevent aphids, you can keep your plant in dry conditions as much as possible and avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can make it vulnerable to pests.
If aphids already exist in your plant, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to get rid of them. Make sure to apply the treatment thoroughly to all the leaves and stems, and avoid applying in direct sunlight or during the hottest parts of the day.
Spider mites can also affect Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke, which can be seen as tiny brown or yellow spots on the leaves. To prevent spider mites, keep the leaves dry and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
If spider mites already exist in your plant, you can apply a miticide to get rid of them. Make sure to apply the treatment according to the package instructions, and avoid applying in direct sunlight or during the hottest parts of the day.
By taking proper care of your Clerodendrum Dalei Moldenke, you can prevent diseases and pests. But if they occur, you can treat them effectively using the above methods.
