Origin
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to southern Africa, specifically Namibia, Angola, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as the "Mexican Hydrangea" or "Mexican Glorybower" in reference to its Hydrangea-like flower clusters and its Mexican origin, although it is not actually from Mexico. In Africa, it is known as "mhomba" or "umtutshane".
Uses
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its beautiful foliage, showy flowers, and its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, and snakebites. The bark of the plant is used to make rope and fiber, and the leaves are used as a seasoning in cooking.
General Appearance
The Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 20 centimeters long. The flowers are held in terminal clusters that can be up to 15 centimeters across. The individual flowers are small, tubular, and light blue to bluish-purple, with long stamens that protrude from the center of the flower.
Growth Conditions for Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense
Light: The Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense requires full sun to partial shade. It is a plant that thrives well in bright and indirect light. The plant grows well in open areas with sufficient light exposure.
Temperature: This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures from 10 to 30°C. The Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense can tolerate a level of cold, but it is best to keep it in a place where the temperature range is consistent. Higher temperatures do not affect the growth of the plant, but it may require a little more watering when the temperature is very high.
Soil Requirements: The Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense prefers well-drained soil, moderately rich in organic matter. Soil that is too compacted or heavy with clay can cause root rot. It is best to ensure that the soil is porous and has enough water holding capacity, and it must be enriched with organic matter.
In summary, the Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense requires bright and indirect light exposure, a temperature range within 10-30°C, and well-drained porous soil, rich in organic matter, to thrive and grow well. These growth conditions are relatively easy to meet.
Cultivation Methods
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. is a hardy plant that requires minimal care and maintenance. It thrives in warm and humid conditions and is best grown in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. This plant prefers partial to full sunlight and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. vary depending on the soil and weather conditions. It requires moderate watering during the growing season and should be watered deeply so that the water reaches the plant's roots. It is important to avoid overwatering as this may lead to root rot. During the dormant season, the plant can tolerate drier soil conditions, and the watering should be reduced accordingly.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, preferably with a balanced fertilizer that provides equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilization should be done every four to six weeks. During the dormant season, fertilizer can be reduced or stopped entirely.
Pruning
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. It should be pruned during the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Pruning should be done to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches or stems. The plant should also be pruned to promote new growth and increase flowers' production. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense
Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense can be propagated through several methods, including:
1. Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a reliable method of propagating Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense. Take 6-inch stem cuttings from the tip of the plant in spring and summer. Make a clean cut with a sharp knife and remove all leaves except the top two. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area until roots start to grow. Roots should appear in 4 to 6 weeks. Once the roots are well-established, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
2. Division
Clerodendrum myricoides subsp. namibiense can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in spring before new growth appears. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into clumps. Replant the divided clumps in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a shaded area until new growth appears. Once new growth appears, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
3. Seeds
Propagation through seeds is possible, but it's not reliable and can take a long time to produce a plant. Collect the seeds in late summer or early autumn. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist. Place the pot in a shaded area until the seedlings emerge. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It may take several months for the seedlings to grow large enough to be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern.
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke subsp. namibiense R.Fern., commonly known as the bleeding heart plant, is a beautiful and valuable ornamental plant. To keep it healthy and thriving, it is essential to manage its pests and diseases properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
The bleeding heart plant is relatively resistant to diseases, but it may develop the following conditions:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot disease usually appears as small, dark spots with yellow borders on the plant leaves. This fungus typically thrives in wet and humid conditions and can spread quickly, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage the disease, remove the infected leaves and avoid watering the leaves directly. Ensure that the plant gets adequate sunlight and thins out crowded and overhanging branches to create good air circulation.
Root Rot
Root rot is the most significant disease that affects the bleeding heart plant. It's caused by a fungus that thrives in overly wet and poorly-drained soil. Root rot can cause root tissues to decay and stunt or kill the plant. To avoid this disease, ensure the planter or garden bed has good drainage. Avoid frequent watering and over-fertilization, which can cause the soil to retain water and create an environment for fungal growth. If you notice signs of root rot, immediately remove the infected plant and disinfect the soil before planting a new bleeding heart plant.
Pests
Besides diseases, the bleeding heart plant may also be attacked by various pests, including:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew, which can attract ants and cause fungal infections, such as sooty mold, on the plants. To manage aphid infestation, remove affected leaves manually or use strong blasts of water to clean the plant's foliage. You can also introduce ladybugs or lacewings that prey on aphids.
Caterpillars
The bleeding heart plant may suffer from caterpillar attack, with the green looper or the cabbage worm being the most common. These pests can severely damage the plant by feeding on its foliage and leaving holes in leaves. To manage this pest, remove the affected leaves manually or introduce predators such as birds or parasitic wasps that eat caterpillars.
Overall, proper plant care, including watering, fertilization, pruning, and good soil drainage, can significantly reduce disease and pest attack on the bleeding heart plant. However, it is crucial to react quickly the moment you notice any signs of pests or diseases to prevent the spread and protect your plant.
