Overview:
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. is a unique plant species that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. This plant has many common names, including velvet clerodendrum, pink butterfly plant, and fuzzy flower. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Description:
Velvet clerodendrum is a shrub that can grow up to 2.5 meters tall with a spread of 1.5 meters. It has dense foliage with large leaves that are green and velvety to touch. The plant produces beautiful pink flowers, which have a butterfly-like shape with long thin petals. The flowers are held in clusters and bloom throughout the year. Velvet clerodendrum has a woody stem and branches, and it grows well in full sun and partial shade.
Uses:
The plant has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. The leaves and bark of velvet clerodendrum have been used to treat various ailments, including fever, headaches, and digestive issues. The crushed leaves can also be applied directly to the skin to treat skin infections and rashes. Apart from its medicinal uses, velvet clerodendrum is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and streetscapes.
Due to its beautiful pink flowers, the plant attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, making it an excellent addition to any garden. Velvet clerodendrum is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it an easy plant to care for and maintain.
Conclusion:
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. is a magnificent plant that offers both medicinal and ornamental benefits. Its pink butterfly-like flowers, velvety foliage, and ease of care make it a great addition to any garden.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. plant grows best in partial shade or filtered light conditions. It can tolerate full sun exposure for a short duration of the day but prolonged exposure can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures, with a range between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but may require additional watering during such times. Cold temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the plant, and frost can be fatal.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. plant grows best in well-draining, moist soil that is organic-rich. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types including sandy loam, clay loams, and lateritic soils.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. is a tropical plant that needs warm and humid environments to thrive. It requires protection from direct sunlight and strong winds. It can be grown in pots or in the ground in suitable climates.
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged to ensure healthy growth.
This plant is well-suited to subtropical and tropical climates, and it can be grown outdoors in frost-free regions. Indoors, it will thrive in a brightly-lit position, away from direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can cause root rot. In the hotter months of the year, it may require daily watering to prevent dehydration, while early morning or late evening watering is recommended in dry seasons.
Overwatering can be just as damaging, resulting in yellow leaves, wilting or dropping leaves, and other symptoms of waterlogged soils. You can gauge if the required moisture has been reached by applying the fingertip test on the top of the soil.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary for the growth and continued health of Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season and once a month in the dormant season. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization with nitrogen, which can lead to softened growth and loss of branch strength.
The best time for fertilization is during the plant's active growth season, which is generally spring through fall. When fertilizing container-grown plants, use less fertilizer than you would for plants in open forms.
Pruning
Regular pruning can help maintain an attractive form in Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. Prune annually during the winter dormancy period to encourage robust spring growth.
To promote flowers and control the size and shape of the plant, prune tall stems to encourage the growth of lower branches. It is also essential to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Cut back the plant by leaving a few buds above the soil level after the winter season. In spring, new shoots will grow, and the plant will have a fuller, bushier shape. Avoid cutting more than a third of the total plant growth, as excessive pruning can shock the plant's system and reduce flowering.
Propagation of Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev.
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix in a container with good drainage. The seeds should be covered lightly with the potting mix and kept moist. The container should be kept in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Germination can occur within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from the plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and removed from the plant just below a node. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist, and placed in bright, indirect light. Bottom heat can also be provided to promote rooting. Rooting can occur in 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Layering
Layering is a method where a portion of a stem is buried in soil while still attached to the parent plant. The buried portion will develop roots, and the stem can then be separated from the parent plant. To propagate Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. through layering, select a young, flexible stem and make a small cut just below a leaf node. Bury the cut portion in the soil, keeping the stem above ground. Water the soil frequently to keep it moist, and roots will develop in a few weeks. Once new roots have formed, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into a new container with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev.
Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. is a relatively disease-resistant and pest-resistant plant. However, it can still fall prey to some diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects many plant species, including Clerodendrum velutinum. It typically manifests as small, circular, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown or black. To manage leaf spot, affected leaves should be removed from the plant and disposed of properly. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect Clerodendrum velutinum. It is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are one of the most common pests that can affect Clerodendrum velutinum. To manage aphids, a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap can be used to dislodge or kill them. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs can also be released to feed on aphids.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, yellow, brown, or red pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They often spin webs on the undersides of leaves and feed on plant sap, which can cause leaves to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, affected leaves can be removed and destroyed. Insecticides can also be applied, although care should be taken not to harm beneficial insects.
Overall, Clerodendrum velutinum A.Chev. var. subintegrum A.Chev. is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, proper plant hygiene, regular inspections, and prompt treatment are key to maintaining the health and vitality of the plant.
