Overview
Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. is a plant species that belongs to the family Lamiaceae, which is native to tropical Africa. This plant is also known by its common names, such as the “Shooting Star” and “Tickseed,” among others.
Description
The "Shooting Star" is an erect, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2m (6.5ft) in height. Its stems are smooth and brownish, and its branches spread outwards. The leaves are glossy, dark green in color, ovate, and arranged oppositely on the stem. Its inflorescences are terminal, producing whitish-pink flowers with a red spot on the lower petal. These flowers are five-petaled, tubular with a long corolla, and have stamens that protrude outwards.
Uses
The "Shooting Star" plant is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and landscapes for its attractive flowers and foliage. Its leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, such as fever, cough, and snake bites. The extracts from the plant contain several bioactive compounds that possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition, the plant is useful in natural pest control. Its extracts have insecticidal properties and are used to repel and control pests, such as flies, mosquitoes, and termites.
Cultivation
The "Shooting Star" plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They require regular watering during the growing season and moderate fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The plants are propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or root division. They are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 but can be grown in other zones as an annual or container plant.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. plant requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It should be grown in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. Without enough sunlight, the plant may become weak and stunted.
Temperature Requirements
This particular plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. Its growth may be severely impacted by anything lower than 10°C. It is not recommended to plant this species in areas that experience winter or frost.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. The optimal pH range for the plant is between 6.5 to 7. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it may impact the plant's growth. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions and may develop root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil may improve its quality and provide adequate nutrition for the plant.
Cultivation methods
Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. is a shade-loving plant that requires a well-draining soil mix. It can be propagated through stem cuttings, by seed, or by layering. When planting or transplanting, always ensure that the soil is moist to help the plant adjust to the new environment.
The plant grows best in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 and 29 degrees Celsius). It requires protection from frost, strong winds, and direct sunlight to avoid leaf scorching.
Watering needs
This plant thrives in moist but not waterlogged soil. A frequent watering schedule will help to keep the soil slightly damp and prevent it from completely drying out. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering than during the winter.
The best way to water is by slowly watering around the base of the plant until the soil is damp but not soaking wet. The plant should also be misted regularly to increase humidity, especially if the air inside the house is too dry.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization can help promote healthy growth and flowering in Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (from spring to fall).
Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Excessive fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing root damage.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant and to promote healthy growth. The best time to prune is during the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
To prune, remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches by cutting them back to the healthy, living portion of the stem. Next, remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other before trimming back the remaining branches to shape the plant.
It is also important to remove spent flowers to promote new blooms, which can be done by pinching them off with your fingers or using sharp, sterilized pruning shears.
Propagation of Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov.
Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. (also known as Vinous glorybower) can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. can be sown directly in the ground or in seedling trays filled with soil mix. The soil mix should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil mix, and the tray or pot should be kept in a warm, humid location with indirect sunlight.
The seeds will germinate in a few weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted into larger containers or in the ground when they have grown enough to handle.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Cuttings of Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. can be taken in spring or summer. Cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long with a few leaves attached. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder.
Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining and moist soil mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag and place it in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Roots will form in about 4-6 weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted into a larger container or in the ground when it has grown enough to handle.
Propagation by Layering
Layering of Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. is a method that involves bending a branch down to the ground and covering a section of it with soil mix. It is best done in spring.
After a few weeks, roots will form from the covered section of the branch. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a larger container or in the ground.
Propagation of Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. through seeds, cuttings, and layering can be a rewarding experience for gardeners who love to propagate their own plants.
Disease Management
Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. is generally resistant to most common plant diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions. The best way to manage these diseases is through proper sanitation practices that include removal of infected plant debris, pruning of infected branches, and improving air circulation around the plant to reduce humidity.
Pest Management
Clerodendrum incisum Klotzsch var. vinosum Chiov. can be susceptible to a range of pests. The most common pests that can affect this plant include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites.
Mealybugs: These small insects can appear as white, cottony masses on the plant. They can be managed by manually removing them where possible and spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects: Scale insects can appear as brown or black bumps on the plant's stems or leaves. They can be treated by pruning and removing the infected plant parts or by using an insecticidal spray.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can be identified by the spider-like webs they produce on the underside of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or using insecticidal soap.
In all cases, it is recommended to regularly inspect the plant and take action as soon as possible to prevent the pests from spreading. It is also important to maintain a healthy plant by providing adequate water, nutrition, and sunlight to reduce its susceptibility to diseases and pests.
