Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii, also known as the Nigerian glory bower, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to East Africa, specifically Kenya and Tanzania, and can be found growing in the highlands and montane forests in these regions.
Common Names
The Nigerian glory bower is known by several common names including Johnston's clerodendrum, Johnston's glory bower, and East African clerodendrum.
Uses
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive floral display. The plant produces clusters of bright red or pink flowers that are surrounded by white or pink bracts. The flowers are fragrant and attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Apart from its ornamental value, the plant is also used for traditional medicine in some parts of East Africa. The roots, leaves, and stem bark are used to treat a variety of ailments including stomach disorders, fever, and infertility in women.
General Appearance
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant produces flowers in large terminal inflorescences that can measure up to 30 cm across. The fruit is a small, purplish-black drupe that contains four seeds.
The Nigerian glory bower is an attractive plant with ornamental and medicinal value. Its striking flowers and glossy leaves make it a popular choice for gardens, while its traditional uses in East African medicine make it an important cultural resource.
Growth Conditions for Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is a tropical shrub that thrives in warm and humid environments. It requires bright, indirect light and consistent temperatures to produce vibrant blooms and maintain healthy growth.
Light Requirements
This plant requires bright, indirect light to grow properly. It is essential to avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch and damage the leaves. A shaded area with filtered light is ideal for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii thrives in warm temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.7°C). The plant cannot tolerate extreme cold, and temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage or kill it. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature to promote healthy growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. Adequate soil moisture is crucial for healthy growth, but overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out partially between watering.
Overall, the Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii thrives in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect light. Adequate soil moisture, well-draining soil, and consistent temperature are crucial for healthy growth and development.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is a tropical plant species that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is important to place the plant in an area that receives partial shade to protect it from direct sunlight. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is crucial to ensure the soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5, which is slightly acidic.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements of Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii vary depending on the weather conditions. The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season to ensure the soil remains moist. During the winter season, the watering should be reduced to prevent root rot. It is advisable to water the plant in the morning hours to ensure the foliage dries out before nighttime.
Fertilization
The Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii requires regular fertilization to remain healthy and promote growth. During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer once every 4-6 weeks. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to prevent over-fertilization, which may damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of maintaining the health and appearance of Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii. Prune the plant regularly to remove any damaged or dead branches and increase air circulation. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. It is important to use sharp pruning shears to prevent damaging the plant and ensure a clean cut.
Propagation of Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii, commonly known as Johnston's clerodendrum, is a tropical plant that is native to Central and West Africa. It is a shrubby plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant is propagated through several methods, including seedlings, division, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seedlings
Seeds of Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii are collected from mature plants and should be sown as soon as possible to prevent them from losing viability. Seeds are sown in seed trays filled with a mixture of loamy soil and compost, then watered and placed in a warm, well-lit area. Germination occurs in 2-3 weeks, and once the seedlings have reached a height of about 10 cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii can be propagated by division, which involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting each section as an individual plant. This is typically done when the plant has become too large for its container or space. To divide the plant, carefully remove it from its pot, gently separate the roots, and cut the plant into several sections with a sharp knife or scissors. Replant each section in a new container with fresh soil.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii to propagate new plants. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, typically in late spring or early summer. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, take a cutting from a healthy, mature stem that is at least 10 cm in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, then dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a pot of seed-starting mix. Water the cutting and place it in a warm, well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight to encourage root growth.
Disease Management
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is relatively resistant to diseases. However, some fungal and bacterial diseases might infect the plant.
Gray mold is a common fungal disease that affects the plant. It thrives in humid conditions and can cause leaf blight, stem rot, and flower wilting. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, control humidity and ensure proper air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide.
Bacterial wilt is another disease that can affect Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii. It is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum and can cause wilting and eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, avoid overwatering, and apply a bactericide.
Pest Management
Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests might attack the plant.
Mealybugs are the most common pest that affects Clerodendrum johnstonii Oliv. subsp. johnstonii. They suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, physically remove them from the plant or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect the plant. They feed on the plant leaves and cause yellowing and drying of the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, spray the plant with water to increase humidity levels and avoid overfertilizing the plant.
Thrips might also attack the plant. They cause leaf curling, leaf browning, and reduced plant growth. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil and increase air circulation around the plant.
