Overview of Clerodendrum Philippinum Schauer
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is commonly known as the mint family. The plant is indigenous to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Indonesia. The plant is widely grown as an ornamental plant and has several common names, such as Philippine clerodendrum, Bagawak-morado, and Sining-gising.
General Appearance of Clerodendrum Philippinum Schauer
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer is a fast-growing perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The plant has a dark green, smooth, and glossy leaves that are about 10-20 cm long and 5-12 cm wide. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern and have a slightly heart-shaped structure. The plant produces beautiful and fragrant flowers that are purple in color with a white center and white stamens. The flowers are arranged in clusters that can grow up to 20 cm long and 15 cm wide.
Uses of Clerodendrum Philippinum Schauer
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer has various cultural, medicinal and nutritional uses. In the Philippines, the plant is sometimes used for ornamental purposes, as well as for treatment of respiratory ailments such as asthma, cough, and colds. The plant is also considered to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Moreover, the leaves of Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer can be used as a traditional remedy for headaches, fever, and toothaches. In addition, the fruit of the plant is edible and is used as a food ingredient like in Southeast Asian cuisine such as Filipino cuisine, as well as for food coloring and flavoring.
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer is also used in traditional Filipino folklore and legends as a symbol of good luck and success. It is believed that the plant can help in attracting prosperity and wealth.
Light Requirements
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer requires bright, indirect light to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering. It is best to grow this plant near a bright window that receives sunlight for a few hours a day, but is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures between 18-26°C (65-80°F). It cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold temperatures. It is important to keep this plant away from drafty areas, such as near air conditioning or heating vents, as this can lead to stress and poor growth.
Soil Requirements
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range between 6.0-7.5 is ideal for this plant. It is best to avoid heavy, clayey soils as they can cause waterlogging and root rot. Additionally, this plant benefits from periodic fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer, also called the Philippine clerodendrum, is an ornamental perennial plant that thrives in warm, humid climates. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and partial shade to full sun exposure.
The plant grows to a height of 2-3 meters and spreads up to 2 meters. It is best propagated by stem cuttings or root divisions during early spring. Once planted, it takes about 6-12 months for the plant to flower.
Watering needs
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer requires frequent watering, especially during the summer season, to keep the soil moist. However, this plant is prone to root rot when watered excessively, so ensure that the soil drains well and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
The Philippine clerodendrum responds well to regular fertilization during the growing season, especially when planted in nutrient-poor soil. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, every two weeks. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like compost and manure at the start of the growing season.
Pruning
To shape the plant and encourage bushier growth, prune Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer after flowering. Remove the dead or weak branches, and cut back the taller stems to promote lateral growth. It is also advisable to remove the spent blooms and seed heads to prevent re-seeding and allow the plant to put more energy into growth.
Propagation of Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer
Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer, commonly known as Bagawak-morado, is a Philippine endemic plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. This plant is popular for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Propagation Methods
There are several methods of propagating Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer. These include:
1. Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds of Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer can be obtained from the dried fruit capsules. The seeds are then sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist until germination.
2. Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer. The stem cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and taken from the plant's current growth. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mix.
3. Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation that can be used for Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer. In this method, a section of the stem's bark is removed, and the exposed area is covered with a rooting hormone and moist sphagnum moss. The moss is then wrapped with a plastic film to maintain moisture. After roots have developed, the stem can be cut below the rooting area and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation of Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer can be done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum Philippinum Schauer
As with any plant, Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer is susceptible to various diseases and pests. It is essential to routinely monitor the plant's health and take steps to manage these issues promptly.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves and stems and can cause the plant's leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide spray.
Anthracnose is another common fungal disease that can affect the plant. It appears as circular brown spots on the leaves, and the affected leaves eventually drop. Remove any infected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant to prevent this disease from spreading. Treat the plant with a fungicide spray if necessary.
Common Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can affect Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer. They appear as small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or treat with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are another pest that can cause damage to the plant. They are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow stippling on the leaves and eventually leading to leaf drop. Increase humidity around the plant and treat with insecticidal soap to manage this pest.
Regular monitoring of Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer and prompt management of any diseases or pests can help keep the plant healthy and thriving.
