Origin
Clerodendrum humile Chiov. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, with its distribution range spanning from Guinea to Tanzania.
Common Names
The plant has several common names depending on the region it is found. In Swahili, it is referred to as mfunza or kisigau, while in Kikuyu, it is known as muthakwa. In English, it is commonly referred to as the Dwarf clerodendrum or the Humble clerodendrum.
Uses
Traditionally, the plant has various medicinal uses. It is used to treat stomach ailments, snake bites, and jaundice. Additionally, it is used as an insecticide and a repellent. In some regions, the roots and stem are used as a masticatory to improve oral hygiene.
The plant is also grown and frequently used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its small size, colorful flowers, and evergreen foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners. It can also be grown as a hedge plant or as part of mixed borders to provide excellent ground cover.
General Appearance
The Clerodendrum humile Chiov. is a small evergreen shrub that usually grows to a height of 30-60cm. It has a very dense growth habit, with several branches closely packed together to form a compact bushy plant. The leaves are dark green in color, shiny, and usually measure about 5-8cm in length.
The flowers of the plant, which appear in clusters, are the highlight of the plant. They are trumpet-shaped and usually range in color from deep pink to magenta. The flowers are about 3-5cm long and have a very sweet fragrance, which attracts insects and butterflies to the plant. The fruit of the plant is a small drupe that is usually red in color and contains a single seed.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum humile Chiov. plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure to grow optimally. However, full exposure to direct sunlight may damage the leaves and stunt its growth. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant in a partially shaded area that receives a few hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The Clerodendrum humile Chiov. plant prefers warm temperatures ranging between 20-30°C (68-86°F) for optimal growth. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can be damaging to the plant and cause it to wilt or die.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum humile Chiov. plant prefers a well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging between 6.0-6.5 for optimal growth. Additionally, the soil should be able to retain moisture, as this plant cannot tolerate drought stress. It is recommended to add compost or mulch around the base of the plant to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
Cultivation Methods
Clerodendrum humile Chiov. is best grown in a well-drained soil mixture, rich in organic matter. Plant the seeds or cuttings in a potting mix that drains well and has a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It is important to ensure that the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The plant prefers partial shade, so it should be placed in a location that receives filtered sunlight or early morning sun and afternoon shade.
Watering Needs
Clerodendrum humile Chiov. requires regular watering during its growing season, which is from spring to autumn. The soil should always be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply, but allow the soil to dry partially before watering again. Reduce watering during the dormant season, which is during the winter months. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
Feed the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply after watering. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season. Excessive fertilizer can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers.
Pruning
Clerodendrum humile Chiov. should be pruned after the blooming season to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut back the remaining branches by one-third to one-half of their length. This will promote new growth and lead to a fuller plant. To promote bushier growth and encourage flowering, pinch off the tips of the branches throughout the growing season.
Propagation Methods of Clerodendrum humile Chiov.
There are several methods of propagating Clerodendrum humile Chiov., including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagating Clerodendrum humile Chiov. is by using seeds. The seeds should be collected from the plant during the fall season. They should be sown in good quality potting soil in individual containers and kept in a warm and humid environment. The seeds will take around two weeks to germinate, and once they do, they should be placed in a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another method of propagating Clerodendrum humile Chiov. This method is best done in the spring season when the plant is actively growing. Take cuttings from the plant's stems that are around 6 inches long, and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a mix of perlite and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and covered with plastic to maintain a humid environment until roots form, typically within two weeks. Once established, the cuttings may be planted in pots or their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Dividing the plant is a simple and effective way to propagate Clerodendrum humile Chiov. This method is best done in the spring season or fall season when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the root ball and separate it into sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system and a portion of the stem. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a propagation method that involves creating a new plant from a stem while it remains attached to the parent plant. Make a shallow cut in the stem near a node and wrap a moist wad of sphagnum moss around the cut. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with a twist tie or string. Over time, the moss will sprout roots, and the stem can be removed from the parent plant and planted in its own container.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum Humile Chiov.
Clerodendrum humile Chiov. is a tough and adaptable plant, but like any other plant, it is still susceptible to diseases and pest infestations. Being able to recognize common diseases and pests that might affect the plant is critical to minimize damage and maintain plant health. The following are some common disease and pest-related problems that Clerodendrum humile Chiov. may encounter and ways to manage them sustainably.
Common Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot disease is the most common fungal disease that Clerodendrum humile Chiov. can suffer from. It causes brown or black spots on leaves that later enlarge and merge, leading to leaf drop. To manage this disease, prune the affected parts and destroy them. Avoid watering late in the day, and ensure adequate spacing between plants to increase air circulation.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot and eventually die. Wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth are all signs of root rot. Avoid overwatering and over-fertilization, improve drainage, and remove and destroy affected plants.
Common Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. They also produce honeydew, which causes fungal growth. To manage scale insects, prune and dispose of affected parts, wash the plant with soapy water, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from leaves, causing discoloration and bronzing. They also produce webbing, which can cover the leaves and stems. To control spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, spray the plant with water, or introduce natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on leaves and stems, causing stunted growth, wilting and death. They also produce white, waxy secretions, which can attract ants. To manage mealybugs, prune and dispose of affected parts, use insecticidal soap, alcohol, or systemic insecticides or introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps or ladybugs.
By practicing good cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilizing, pruning, and cleaning of gardening tools, one can keep the Clerodendrum humile Chiov. healthy and disease-free. Insects and diseases are a natural part of any garden, but by keeping them under control, you can enjoy a thriving and beautiful Clerodendrum humile Chiov. for years to come.
