Overview: Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc.
Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This plant is native to Tanzania and can be found growing in forests, riverbanks, and rocky areas. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and has several uses in medicine.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the Tanzania Teak, East African teak, or bush-teak.
Description
The Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant is a compact shrub that grows up to a height of 2-4 meters. The leaves of the plant are large, shiny, and dark green. They are arranged in an opposite manner, with a length of up to 30cm and a width of up to 23cm. The branches of the plant are stiff and erect, with a woody texture. The flowers are arranged in clusters, and each flower is about 4cm in length. The petals are reddish-purple and have a thinner texture compared to the leaves. The fruit produced is a drupe, which is round, black, and contains several seeds.
Uses
The Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant has several uses in traditional medicine. The roots are used to treat fever, while the leaves are used to treat wounds and skin infections. The sap of the plant is used to treat earaches and to remove ticks and lice. Additionally, the plant is used as a decorative plant in gardens due to its attractive flowers and leaves.
The plant also has significant economic importance. The wood of the plant is used for making furniture, tool handles, and construction materials. The plant is a popular source of honey, with its honey being dark and flavorful.
Overall, the Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant is a versatile plant that has several uses in different fields. Its applicability in medicine, in construction, and as a decorative plant makes it a valuable resource to the people of Tanzania.
Light Requirements:
The Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can adapt to slightly shady conditions but does not thrive in direct sunlight. Therefore, it should be placed in a location where it can receive adequate sunlight for healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for the Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant is between 18°C (65°F) to 26°C (80°F). It can tolerate temperatures that range from 13°C (55°F) to 29°C (85°F). Although the plant is generally hardy, it is sensitive to frost and low temperatures. Hence, it should be protected from cold drafts during the winter season and placed in a warm spot with consistent temperature levels.
Soil Requirements:
The Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant grows best in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH level should range from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.5). A mixture of peat moss, loamy soil, and perlite or sand is suitable for this plant. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant's health and growth.
Cultivation Methods
Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. is a tropical plant that can be cultivated outdoors in warm climates or indoors in a pot. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Plant the Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. in a location where it receives partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Watering Needs
Water the Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant regularly but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. The plant should not sit in waterlogged soil as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season from spring to fall. Fertilize the plant every two weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer that is diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Prune the Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. plant after flowering has ended. Remove any dead or diseased branches, cutting back to healthy wood. The plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size or to promote bushier growth. Prune back up to one-third of the branches at a time.
Propagation of Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc.
Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc., commonly referred to as the Broad-lobed glorybower, can be propagated through a variety of methods. Some of the popular propagation methods include:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common and easiest way to propagate Clerodendrum robustum. Collect seeds during the fall when the seedpods begin to dry out. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist. Germination usually takes two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have established, transfer them to individual pots.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can be done all year round. Take stem cuttings of about 10 to 15 cm with atleast 2 -3 leaves attached to them. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil, place a clear plastic bag over the cutting and keep it in a warm, bright area. After 4-6 weeks the stem cutting should show roots and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Clerodendrum robustum. Choose a healthy, young branch and remove a small section of bark in the middle of the branch. Dust the wound with rooting hormone and wrap wet sphagnum moss around the area. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure both ends. After several weeks a visible bump on the moss will mean that the roots are forming. Cut the rooted section from the parent plant and plant it in well-draining soil mix.
Disease Management
Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. is prone to some diseases that can affect its overall health and growth. Below are some of the most common diseases that might affect this plant and how to manage them:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. The infected leaves might turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a copper fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a disease caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. The affected plant might show signs of wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and apply a fungicide to the soil.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. The infected leaves might curl or distort. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate.
Pest Management
There are several pests that might attack Clerodendrum robustum Klotzsch var. latilobum Verdc. Below are some of the most common pests and how to manage them:
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, round bumps on the leaves, stem, and branches. They feed on the plant's sap and cause stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove the affected parts of the plant and spray with a horticultural oil.
- Aphids: These pests are small, green insects that feed on the underside of leaves. They suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These pests are the larvae of butterflies and moths. They feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand and apply a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
