Overview of Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker
Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker is a flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the African continent, more specifically to Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant is known by several common names, including black bagflower, button bush, and velvetleaf.
Appearance of Clerodendrum dumale
Clerodendrum dumale is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to six meters in height. The plant is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves that have a soft, velvety texture. The leaves are about ten to twenty centimeters long and have prominent veins. The plant also bears attractive flowers that are pinkish-purple in color and arranged in clusters. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall seasons, and they have a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.
Uses of Clerodendrum dumale
Clerodendrum dumale is used for various purposes. In traditional African medicine, the plant has been used to treat various ailments, including fever, headaches, and stomach problems. The leaves and bark of the plant are also used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, some African communities use the plant as a natural insect repellent.
In landscaping, Clerodendrum dumale is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is also easy to grow, maintaining high adaptability to different climatic conditions and soil types.
However, despite its medicinal and landscaping uses, the plant has several risks associated with it. Clerodendrum dumale is known to be toxic to livestock, and its ingestion can cause severe illness or even death.
Overall, Clerodendrum dumale is a unique and versatile plant with a range of uses, but it should be used with caution.Light requirements
The Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker plant requires bright and indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and hinder its growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a partially shaded location with plenty of bright, indirect light.
Temperature requirements
The plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. An average temperature of 18-25°C is suitable for the Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker plant. It cannot tolerate extreme temperature fluctuations or cold drafts, so it is best to keep the plant away from air conditioning vents and windows during winter. In areas with low humidity, it is advisable to mist the leaves regularly to create the optimal conditions for growth.
Soil requirements
The Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for the plant ranges between 6 and 7.5. The plant prefers soils that are consistently moist but not waterlogged. Therefore, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can cause root rot and affect its growth. Adding mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and improve the soil's fertility.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker can be grown as a houseplant or a garden plant in tropical or subtropical climates. It requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C and 26°C.
Watering needs
It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, and underwatering can lead to wilting. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season, this plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker benefits from regular fertilization. Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. In winter, reduce fertilization to once a month. Avoid overfertilization, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
To promote bushiness, pinch the tips of the shoots regularly when the plant is young. Prune the plant in spring to maintain a desired size and shape. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and stems. Cut back any leggy branches to encourage new growth. Regular pruning will also stimulate the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker
Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker, also known as the stickleaf, is a perennial shrub native to tropical Africa. It has dark green, glossy leaves and stunning pink to red tubular flowers. If you want to propagate a new Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker plant, you can use different methods.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Step-by-step Guide:
- During the active growth period (spring/summer), select a healthy stem with no flowers and cut a section 4-6 inches long.
- Pinch off the lower leaves, leaving only the top two or three. These leaves should not touch the soil or water.
- Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
- Prepare a pot of well-draining soil. You can mix perlite or sand to enhance drainage and aeration.
- Push the cutting into the soil, until only the leaves remain above the surface.
- Water the cutting, until the soil is evenly moist. Drain excess water from the saucer or tray.
- Place the cutting in a bright, warm place, but avoid direct sunlight or scorching temperatures.
- Mist the leaves regularly, to keep them hydrated and prevent wilting.
- After 3-4 weeks, check the roots by gently pulling the cutting. If you feel resistance, it means that roots have formed.
- Transplant the rooted cutting into a larger container or into the garden, and continue to water and care for it.
Propagation by seed
Step-by-step Guide:
- Collect ripe berries from a healthy Clerodendrum dumale (Hiern) Baker plant. They should be deep purple to black and feel plump and firm.
- Extract the seeds from the berries. Rinse them under running water to remove the pulp and let them dry on a paper towel.
- Fill small pots with seed-starting mix. Press the seeds about 1/4 inch deep into the soil.
- Mist the soil, until it's lightly moist. Cover the pots with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag, making sure the top does not touch the soil or seeds.
- Place the pots in a warm, bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight. The temperature should be around 70-75 F (20-24 C).
- Check the soil moisture every day and mist it if it's dry. Do not let the soil dry out or become waterlogged.
- After 2-4 weeks, you should see the seeds sprouting. Once the plants have their first true leaves, you can transplant them into larger containers or into the garden.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Clerodendrum dumale is powdery mildew. It is characterized by a white and powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Additionally, the affected areas should be removed and destroyed, and the rest of the plant should be sprayed with an appropriate fungicide.
Bacterial leaf spot is another disease that can affect Clerodendrum dumale. It is characterized by the appearance of black or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy the infected leaves, and to spray the plant with an appropriate bactericide.
Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect Clerodendrum dumale. It is characterized by the yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and to avoid overwatering the plant. Additionally, the plant can be sprayed with an appropriate fungicide to help manage the disease.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Clerodendrum dumale is aphids. These small insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and flowers. To manage an aphid infestation, it is important to remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant and to spray the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
Spider mites are another common pest that can affect Clerodendrum dumale. They are characterized by the appearance of small webs on the plant. To manage a spider mite infestation, it is important to remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant and to spray the plant with an appropriate miticide.
Caterpillars can also affect Clerodendrum dumale by eating the leaves of the plant. To manage a caterpillar infestation, it is important to remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant and to spray the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
