Origin
Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl., also known as the "Starburst" and "Musical Note" plant, is native to Southeast Asia including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is widely cultivated in different parts of the world due to its ornamental value.
Common Names
The plant has various common names such as: "Starburst," "Musical Note," "Bagalnga," "Kulibangbang," "Geleng-geleng," "Ear Drop Plant," "Pagoda Plant," and "Lobster Claw."
Uses
Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. is commonly used for ornamental purposes. Its attractive, brightly colored, and unusually shaped flowers are perfect as cut flowers, or as an addition to any landscape design. Additionally, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a host of illnesses including headaches, fevers, common colds, and rheumatism. The roots, leaves, and bark contain aromatic oils and alkaloids that possess anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties.
General Appearance
The plant reaches up to 6 meters in height and produces a profusion of starburst-shaped inflorescences at the end of its long branches. The inflorescences consist of many small, tubular flowers arranged in a dense cluster, and are colored bright red, orange, or pink. The leaves of the plant are oval-shaped, leathery, and dark green in color. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. plant prefers bright but indirect light, making it an excellent indoor plant. It grows well in partial shade, but it requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight to thrive successfully. Exposure to direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so filtered light is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Needs
The Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. plant requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It grows best in temperatures ranging between 60°F to 75°F. The plant is susceptible to frost damage, so it is best grown indoors or in a warm, sheltered outdoor location.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. plant prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil for optimal growth. The soil should be rich in nutrients and have good drainage since the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the necessary balance of moisture and nutrients needed to thrive.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. can be grown in well-draining soil with good fertility. It is recommended to plant in loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade, and it is essential to protect the plant from frost or temperatures below 10°C.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered twice a week, but the frequency may vary depending on weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, it's advisable to water the plant more often to prevent it from drying up.
Fertilization
Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. benefits from fertilization during the growing season. Use a water-soluble fertilizer once a month. Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer twice a year, during early spring and late summer.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant in shape and to control its size. It is recommended to prune Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl. after the flowering period to promote blooming and remove damaged or diseased branches. In addition, you can also prune the plant in early spring to stimulate growth. Avoid pruning during winter or the dormant period when the plant is not actively growing.
Propagation of Clerodendrum Ovalifolium
The Clerodendrum ovalifolium Eng., commonly known as the tubeflower, is a plant species that is widely popular for its purple flowers and ornamental foliage. It can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation via cuttings, air layering or layering, and division.
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Clerodendrum ovalifolium is by seed propagation. Seeds should be collected and planted in well-draining soil mixtures and kept moist and warm until they germinate. Although seed propagation is possible, this method is not usually recommended because it may produce inferior plants.
Vegetative Propagation via Cuttings
Vegetative propagation via cuttings is the most common and recommended method for Clerodendrum ovalifolium propagation. The best time for taking cuttings is during late spring or early summer. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the plant's healthy stems and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and warm, and avoid direct sunlight until the roots start to form.
Air Layering or Layering
Air layering and layering methods are also suitable for Clerodendrum ovalifolium propagation. This involves creating a wound in the stem and covering it with a rooting hormone and a compost mixture. Wrap the wound with plastic wrap, making sure it stays moist. After a few weeks, roots should form, and the new plant can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a pot or garden bed.
Division
Division involves dividing the plant into several smaller sections to create multiple plants. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate the root system into several portions, each containing a part of the stem and some roots. Plant each division in its pot and water well. This method is best done in the fall or early winter when the plant is dormant.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum Ovalifolium
Clerodendrum ovalifolium Engl., also known as Hill glory bower or Bagawak-morado, is a popular ornamental plant known for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. However, like many other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Clerodendrum ovalifolium and some ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Leaf spot - Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects many different types of plants, including Clerodendrum ovalifolium. Symptoms of leaf spot include small, dark spots on the leaves that may eventually enlarge and merge together, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, and apply a fungicide as directed by the manufacturer.
2. Powdery mildew - Powdery mildew is another common fungal disease that can affect Clerodendrum ovalifolium. Symptoms of powdery mildew include a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide as directed.
3. Root rot - Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become soft and mushy. Symptoms of root rot include wilting and yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and eventually, death of the plant. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
Common Pests
1. Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the leaves of Clerodendrum ovalifolium. Symptoms of spider mite infestations include stippling on the leaves, webbing on the plant, and premature leaf drop. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply an insecticide as directed.
2. Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. Symptoms of aphid infestations include curling of the leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, remove and destroy infected leaves and stems, and apply an insecticide as directed.
3. Whiteflies - Whiteflies are small, moth-like insects that can cause damage to the leaves of Clerodendrum ovalifolium. Symptoms of whitefly infestations include yellowing of the leaves, leaf drop, and the presence of sticky honeydew on the plant. To manage whiteflies, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply an insecticide as directed.
Now that you know some common diseases and pests that might affect Clerodendrum ovalifolium, you can take steps to manage them and keep your plant healthy and beautiful.
