Origin
Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is a native plant of West and Central Africa. It is believed to have originated from the tropical rainforests of Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. It has spread to other parts of the world, including Asia and South America, where it is often cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
The plant Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is commonly known by different names depending on the region. In Nigeria, it is known as Ugwu, while in Ghana, it is called Nkontomire. Other common names include Cat's whiskers, Glory bower, and bagflower.
Uses
Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is highly valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In West Africa, the leaves and young shoots of the plant are used for cooking, especially in stews, soups, and sauces. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals and is a good source of antioxidants. It is also used as a traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, stomach ache, and infertility.
General Appearance
The plant Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is a perennial climber that can grow up to 6 meters long. It has a woody stem with branches that develop opposite leaves. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and heart-shaped, with toothed margins. It bears small, white, fragrant flowers that are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a small, two-seeded berry that turns black when ripe. The plant thrives in a warm and humid climate, and it requires well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is a plant that requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. This includes at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that allows ample sunlight to enter the room.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer warm temperatures, usually ranging from 18 to 34 °C. Additionally, this plant is not frost tolerant and requires a warm environment to grow year-round. If grown in colder areas, it is best to grow it in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It requires adequate moisture to thrive; however, it is essential to avoid waterlogging, as this can rot the root system. Organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or manure can be added to the soil to improve the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile, commonly known as a climbing clerodendrum, can be grown in both indoor and outdoor settings. It requires soil that is well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade in humid and warm environments.
When growing the plant in indoor settings, ensure that it is provided with plenty of sunlight or artificial lighting in the absence of the natural light. Place the plant close to a well-lit window or under grow lights, and maintain a temperature range of 65°F to 75°F to foster optimal growth.
Watering Needs
The plant requires a thorough watering once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not wet. Overwatering the plant leads to root rot and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. During the summer, it's recommended to increase the frequency of watering to keep the soil adequately moist.
When growing the plant in indoor settings, ensure to keep the humidity levels high to prevent the leaves from wilting and drying. Place the pot on a tray filled with water, and mist the leaves regularly.
Fertilization
The climbing clerodendrum requires regular feeding to promote healthy growth and blooming. Fertilize the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, i.e., spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can cause fertilizer build-up leading to root burn.
Pruning
Pruning allows the climbing clerodendrum to maintain a good shape and size, as well as promote growth and blooming. Prune the plant during the dormant season (winter) by cutting back about a third of the plant's outer branches. When the plant gets too large, it can be pruned to the desired size by cutting back the branches to the desired length.
Propagation of Clerodendrum volubile P. Beauv. var. volubile
Clerodendrum volubile P. Beauv. var. volubile is commonly propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering. The selection of the propagation method depends on the purpose, convenience, and availability of the materials.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common and convenient method for Clerodendrum volubile P. Beauv. var. volubile. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits, which are green when immature, but turn brown or black when ripe. The seeds are cleaned, planted in nurseries or seedbeds, and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedlings are watered regularly and transplanted to permanent sites when they are about 6-8 weeks old.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another commonly used method for Clerodendrum volubile P. Beauv. var. volubile. The stem cuttings are usually collected from the top of the plant, about 15-20 cm long, with at least two or three nodes. The leaves on the lower part of the stem are removed, leaving only the top leaves. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone and planted in sand, sawdust, or a mixture of both. The cuttings are then covered with a plastic bag or transparent container to maintain humidity. The rooted cuttings are then transplanted to individual pots or permanent sites.
Propagation by Air Layering
Propagation by air layering is a more complex and time-consuming method for Clerodendrum volubile P. Beauv. var. volubile. This method involves wounding a stem, removing a ring of bark, applying rooting hormone, wrapping the wound with moist sphagnum moss, and covering it with plastic. After some time, the roots will develop from the wounded area, forming a new plant. The new plant can then be separated from the old plant and planted in a new site. This method is best used for selected plants with desirable traits, and for plants that are difficult to propagate by other methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile
Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile is a hardy plant that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Early detection and proper management are essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by various fungi, and it usually manifests as circular or angular spots on the leaves. The spots may be yellow, brown, or black. In severe cases, the leaves may fall off, and the plant can become defoliated. To manage fungal leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides can also help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant's vigor. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides can also help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by various fungi and can be fatal to the plant. It is characterized by brown or black roots that have a mushy texture and a foul smell. To manage root rot, improve the drainage of the soil, and avoid overwatering the plant. Fungicides can also help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Mealybugs: These pests are small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They leave behind a white, cotton-like substance that can attract other insects. To manage mealybugs, wipe off the insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Neem oil can also help to repel these insects.
Scale Insects: These pests are small, hard-shelled insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant's vigor. To manage scale insects, wipe off the insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Neem oil can also help to repel these insects.
Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause distorted growth and reduce the plant's vigor. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap. Neem oil can also help to repel these insects.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Clerodendrum volubile P.Beauv. var. volubile healthy and thriving.
