Overview
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae, which includes herbs and shrubs with square stems and opposite leaves.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Veldkamp's Glorybower or simply Glorybower.
Appearance
Veldkamp's Glorybower is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It is typically evergreen, with dark-green, glossy leaves that are ovate to elliptical in shape. The stems are square-shaped and slightly hairy. The flowers are small and clustered, with white petals and a pinkish-red calyx, and bloom in clusters from summer to fall. The fruits are small, white berries that are poisonous to humans but are consumed by birds.
Uses
Veldkamp's Glorybower is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, and respiratory infections. The leaves and stems of the plant are crushed and boiled to make a decoction that is consumed as a tea. The plant extract has also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it potentially useful for the development of new medicines.
Growth Conditions for Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas
Light: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas prefers partial to full sunlight. In its natural environment, it grows in the understory of forests where it receives filtered sunlight. When grown indoors, it can thrive in bright rooms or near windows that receive direct sunlight.
Temperature: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas grows well in warm temperatures, with the ideal range being between 18°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations and can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C. However, it is essential to protect the plant from frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soils. Using a soil mix that is rich in peat moss or compost can help retain moisture and nutrients in the soil.
Water: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas prefers moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to allow the soil to dry out partially before watering again. Watering every 7 to 10 days during the growing season is sufficient. During the winter, watering can be reduced to once every 14 days.
Fertilizer: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) can be used once a month. Overfertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, so it is essential to follow the package directions and not exceed the recommended amount.
Humidity: The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Using a humidifier or placing the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles can help increase humidity levels. Misting the leaves regularly can also help keep the plant healthy and vibrant.
The Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. By providing the plant with the right growing conditions such as light, temperature, soil, water, and humidity, it can thrive and add beauty to any space it occupies.
Cultivation Methods
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. Stem cuttings can be taken from a healthy parent plant, dipped in rooting hormone, and planted in soil. The plant prefers partial shade and well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Watering Needs
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas needs regular watering, especially during hot weather. It is important to avoid overwatering that could lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. A good way to check if the plant needs watering is to stick a finger one inch into the soil. If the soil is dry at this depth, then it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas benefits from regular fertilization. Fertilizer can be added every 2-3 months during the growing season, which is typically from spring to summer. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is suitable for this plant. However, it is important to avoid overfertilization as it can lead to poor growth, weak stems, and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is important for the proper growth and maintenance of Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas. It should be done after flowering or during the dormant season. The plant benefits from regular pruning to remove dead or damaged branches, promote new growth, and shape the plant. It is important to use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease transmission and to make clean cuts just above a bud or branching point.
Propagation of Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, air layering and division. However, stem cuttings and air layering are the most effective propagation methods for propagating Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are usually taken during the growing season, which is usually in spring or early summer. Cuttings of approximately 6 inches long are collected and treated with rooting hormones before being placed in a well-draining propagation medium such as perlite or sand. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment with temperatures between 65-75°F and roots should start developing within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Air Layering
Air layering is another popular propagation method for Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas. To do this, a portion of the stem of the plant is selected and a small section of bark is removed. The exposed area is then treated with rooting hormones and covered with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots will develop, and the rooted section can be removed and planted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas
Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas is generally considered to be a low-maintenance plant, but it can still be affected by a range of diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and how to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that can affect many types of plants, including Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas. It appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and can stunt growth if left untreated. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected leaves as soon as you notice them and dispose of them away from the plant. You can also apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root rot: This is a disease caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to wilting and eventual death. To manage root rot, make sure your plant is not sitting in standing water and that the soil has good drainage. If you suspect root rot, stop watering the plant until the soil has dried out, and remove any affected roots before repotting in fresh soil.
Pests
Mealybugs: These small, soft-bodied insects can infest the leaves and stems of Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas, causing damage and eventual death if left untreated. You can manage mealybugs by wiping affected leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Aphids: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and curling of leaves, and can also spread viruses that can damage the plant. To manage aphids, blast affected leaves with a stream of water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
By staying vigilant and taking action at the first sign of disease or pest infestation, you can help ensure that your Clerodendrum quadrangulatum B.Thomas stays healthy and strong.
