Overview:
Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum is a shrub species of the plant family Lamiaceae that is native to southern Africa. It is also commonly known as the "pearl clerodendrum," "smooth clerodendrum," or "beautiful clerodendrum."
Description:
The plant typically grows to a height of up to two meters and has smooth stems and leaves that are approximately 10 cm long. The leaves are oblong in shape and have serrated edges. The plant produces fragrant pink or white flowers that have a greenish-yellow center and are clustered at the end of the branches.
Uses:
Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its beautiful flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, and snakebites.
The leaves of the plant are crushed and used to make a poultice that is applied to the affected area. The flowers are also used to make tea, which is said to have a calming effect on the body and mind.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum plant requires bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can harm the plant's leaves and lead to their yellowing and drying. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in an area with filtered or partial sunlight. Inadequate lighting can cause the plant to grow weak, leggy stems, and leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers a temperature range of 20°C to 25°C. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or heaters, as this can affect the plant's growth and health.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum plant requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. The soil should be rich in nutrients so that it can support the plant's growth. A good potting mix consists of peat moss, perlite, and sand. The soil's pH level should remain between 6.0 to 7.5. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant.
Cultivation:
Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum can be propagated through seeds, softwood stem cuttings, and layering. The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure and is suitable for tropical and subtropical climates.
Watering needs:
Watering Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum requires moderate watering. The soil should never be allowed to become dry, but waterlogging should also be avoided. The plant's watering and drainage requirements may be affected by temperature, humidity, and location.
Fertilization:
During the growing season, Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum would benefit from a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. The use of organic fertilizers and compost material is advised to maintain soil nutrients, promote soil health, and reduce environmental hazards.
Pruning:
Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum needs pruning to promote bushier growth and to remove old, unproductive branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, diseased, or injured branches that may be an entry point for bacteria and pests. Prune to shape the plant and encourage lateral branching.
Propagation of Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum
There are several ways to propagate Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature fruits of the plant. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sown in a well-draining growing medium. The seeds should be kept moist and warm, preferably at a temperature of around 25°C, until they germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual containers.
Stem cutting propagation
Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, select a healthy stem from the plant and cut a 10-15cm section from the tip. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining growing medium and keep it moist and in a warm location. Roots should begin to form in a few weeks and once the cutting has established roots, it can be transplanted to a larger container.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another propagation method for Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum. This involves selecting a healthy branch and wounding the bark in a specific location. A rooting hormone is applied to the wound and it is wrapped with a moist layer of sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. Once roots have formed, the branch can be cut below the new root system and planted in a well-draining growing medium.
Disease Management
Like most plants, the Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum can suffer from a range of diseases. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot are some of the common diseases that can affect this plant.
Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by a white powdery growth on the leaves. It can be caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, or overwatering. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and improve air circulation. You can also use neem oil or fungicides to manage this disease.
Leaf spot: This disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or high humidity. Remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. The roots of the plant will start turning brown or black and will be mushy to the touch. To manage root rot, reduce watering and improve drainage.
Pest Management
There are a few pests that can affect the Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. var. glabrum. These include mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Mealybugs: These pests are white, fluffy insects that can be found on the underside of leaves. They suck the sap from the plant, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. You can manage mealybugs by wiping them off with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol, or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: These pests are tiny, spider-like insects that can be found on the underside of leaves. They suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Whiteflies: These pests are small, white aphid-like insects that can be found on the underside of leaves. They suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage whiteflies, you can use yellow sticky traps or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
