Overview
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. discolor (Klotzsch) Baker is a flowering plant from the family Lamiaceae. It is native to tropical East Africa and is commonly referred to as glorybower or bagflower.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 2-3 meters tall and has reddish purple stems. The leaves are large, hairy, and ovate with a heart-shaped base. It has five to seven lobes with sharp edges that grow up to 18 cm long and 12 cm wide. The flowers are small and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The petals are white, while the sepals are bright red, giving the plant a striking appearance.
Uses
Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor is widely used for ornamental purposes in gardens and as a hedge plant. Its striking appearance also makes it a popular choice for floral arrangements. Additionally, the leaves, flowers, and stems are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including headaches, stomach aches, and fever. The plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a valuable natural remedy.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Placing the plant close to a window where it can receive a few hours of morning sun is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant's leaves, so it is best to avoid exposing it to intense sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18 and 25°C (65-80°F) and does not tolerate cold temperatures well. It is sensitive to frost and should be kept away from drafty areas in a room. It does well in average home temperatures and can thrive in a warm greenhouse environment.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor prefers a well-draining soil mix that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged. A soil mix consisting of peat moss, sand, and garden loam in equal parts is recommended for this plant. Adding perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix can improve drainage and prevent soil compaction. The soil pH should be around 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. discolor (Klotzsch) Baker, commonly known as bagflower or bleeding glorybower, is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-grow plant. It is native to East Africa and can be grown both indoors and outdoors in temperate climates. When choosing a location for the plant, consider the amount of light required, soil type and temperature.
Watering Needs
Bagflower plants require moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and dry out. When watering, ensure that the soil is moist but not soggy. Watering once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch is usually enough.
Fertilization
To keep your bagflower plant healthy and vibrant, fertilize it regularly. Use a complete fertilizer with a balanced nutrient ratio. Fertilize once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, typically from spring to early fall.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for bagflower plants as it helps promote bushy growth and enhances their appearance. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts to appear. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to promote bushiness. If necessary, cut back the plant by up to a third of its size to stimulate vigorous growth.
Propagating Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. discolor (Klotzsch) Baker
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. discolor (Klotzsch) Baker, commonly called glory tree, is a popular ornamental and medicinal plant with attractive foliage and fragrance. Propagation is the process of multiplying plants from seeds, cuttings, divisions, or other plant parts to produce more offspring with desirable traits. Here are some effective propagation methods for Clerodendrum myricoides:
Propagation from seeds
Clerodendrum myricoides produces small, black seeds inside capsules that can be harvested when ripe and sown fresh. The seeds should be cleaned and air-dried before sowing them in trays or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of sand or vermiculite and water gently. Maintain a warm and humid environment (around 25°C) and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings may need to be transplanted into individual containers once they grow their first true leaves.
Propagation from stem cuttings
Clerodendrum myricoides can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken from healthy and mature plants in spring or summer. Select a stem that is about 10-15 cm long, with at least two nodes and some leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to improve rooting. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with moist potting mix and cover it with a clear plastic bag or container to retain moisture and promote humidity. Keep the cutting in a bright but shaded area and mist it regularly. Check for root development after 3-4 weeks, and once the cutting has rooted, gradually remove the cover and expose it to more light and air. Transplant the new plant into a larger container or outdoors after it has acclimated.
Propagation by division
If you already have a mature Clerodendrum myricoides plant that has grown into a clump, you can propagate it by dividing the roots and replanting the sections. This method is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rooted stems into smaller sections with a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have some roots and foliage. Replant the divisions in a well-prepared soil and water thoroughly. Keep the new plants shaded and moist until they establish new roots and start to grow.
Disease Management
Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor is susceptible to several diseases that can cause damage to the plant, affecting its growth and overall health. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: Symptoms include the formation of black, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and flowers. It can be controlled by using fungicides, practicing good sanitation, and avoiding overhead watering.
- Leaf spots: Cause circular or irregularly shaped spots on leaf surfaces. It can be prevented by avoiding watering the foliage and removing infected leaves promptly.
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on leaves and stems. It can be treated with fungicides, pruning infected sections, and improving air circulation.
To prevent the occurrence of these diseases, maintain good sanitation practices such as removing fallen leaves, controlling moisture, and avoiding overhead watering. Also, plant resistant cultivars of Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor.
Pest Management
Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor can also be affected by pests that can cause damage to the plant tissues, affecting its growth and overall health. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt. They can be controlled by removing them manually or using insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Caterpillars: Larvae that feed on leaves, flowers, and buds, affecting plant growth. They can be controlled by removing them manually or using biological or chemical insecticides.
- Spider mites: Tiny insects that cause yellow mottling on leaves and can lead to leaf drop. They can be treated with insecticidal soaps, oils, or acaricides.
To prevent the occurrence of these pests, maintain good sanitation practices such as removing weeds and dead plant material. Also, employ pest management practices such as using biological control agents, implementing crop rotation, and selecting pest-resistant varieties of Clerodendrum myricoides var. discolor.
