Overview
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain, also known as bleeding glory bower or glory tree, is a hybrid plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is a stunning ornamental plant that is popular for its unique flowers and lush foliage.
Origin
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is a cross between two other Clerodendrum species, Clerodendrum thomsoniae and Clerodendrum splendens. The hybrid plant was first discovered and named by the British horticulturist, George Dombrain, in the early 1900s.
Common Names
Besides bleeding glory bower and glory tree, Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is also known as Bagflower and Java Glorybower.
Appearance
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. The plant has broad, dark green, heart-shaped leaves that measure 4-6 inches in length. The leaves have a slightly serrated edge and prominent veins. The flowers of the plant are its most distinctive feature. The inflorescence is composed of showy, tubular flowers that are surrounded by large, bright red bracts. The flowers bloom in clusters that can reach up to 8 inches across.
Uses
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. The striking flowers of the plant make it a popular addition to borders, hedges, and mixed beds. The plant prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. Careful pruning can encourage bushy growth and promote flowering. In traditional medicine, Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headache, and arthritis.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain requires bright filtered sunlight in order to thrive. Direct sunlight may cause leaf scorch and therefore must be avoided. However, it needs at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce flowers properly and maintain good health. This plant grows best in bright locations with plenty of indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures in the range of 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C). The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C). The plant cannot tolerate frost and extreme cold temperatures. During winter, it is best to place the plant in a warm area or a greenhouse.
Watering Requirements
The Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain requires regular watering to maintain moisture in the soil. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet, as overwatering can cause the roots to rot. During the growing season, the plant needs more watering than in winter months. It is also important to mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity levels, as this plant prefers a humid environment.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. A mixture of peat-based and organic potting soil with perlite or vermiculite works well. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5. It is important to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to ensure healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain, also known as the showy glorybower, should be cultivated in a spot that receives full sunlight or partial shade. It grows best in well-drained, moist soil, with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.5. It is essential to plant the shrub in an area that is protected from strong winds.
Watering Needs
When fully established, the showy glorybower can tolerate short periods of drought, but it is necessary to water the young plants regularly to help them establish their roots. In general, the plant requires regular watering during the growing season, and the soil must be kept moist. Watering should be done in the morning as it allows the foliage to dry during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The showy glorybower requires regular fertilization to thrive. It benefits from a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, which should be applied every two months during the growing season. Be careful not to overfeed the plant as it can adversely affect the growth and flowering of the shrub.
Pruning
Pruning the Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is necessary to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. The best time to prune the shrub is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged stems. Then, cut back about one-third of the old wood to the ground to encourage new growth. Also, remove any weak or overcrowded stems to promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Propagation of Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is a beautiful and popular plant that can be propagated in several ways. Here are some of the propagation methods for this plant:
Division
Division is one of the easiest ways to propagate Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in new pots. This can be done in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Make sure to use a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears to cut away any dead or damaged leaves, and then carefully divide the plant into sections. Replant each section into well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain is taking cuttings. This method involves cutting a stem from the mother plant just below a node, removing any leaves from the lower half of the stem, and then inserting the stem into a propagation mix. Keep the mix moist and in a warm, bright location. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to develop roots and new growth. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be potted into a well-draining soil mix.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that is suitable for Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain. This method involves creating a small wound on a stem, applying rooting hormone, and then wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots will start to grow from the wound. Cut the new plant from the parent stem and pot it into a well-draining soil mix.
Seed
Although Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain can be propagated by seed, this method is not commonly used as it can be time-consuming and may not result in plants that are true to the parent plant. If you choose to propagate by seed, sow the seeds in a propagation mix and keep them moist and in a warm, bright location. Seedlings can be potted up into individual pots once they have developed several true leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain, commonly known as bleeding glory bower, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. This plant is low-maintenance, but it is susceptible to some diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain are fungal diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can cause significant damage to the plant if not managed promptly.
Management of Common Diseases
To manage fungal diseases, remove the affected leaves or parts of the plant immediately to prevent the spread of spores to healthy parts. Ensure the plant has excellent air circulation and avoid watering the foliage. Applying a fungicide can also help to control the spread of fungal infections.
If you notice signs of root rot, remove the plant from the soil and wash the roots thoroughly with clean water. Trim off any damaged or diseased roots before repotting the plant in fresh soil. Ensure proper drainage to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged and causing root rot again.
Common Pests
Clerodendrum ×speciosum Dombrain can be affected by several pests, such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests feed on the plant's sap leading to stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Management of Common Pests
To manage pests, it is necessary to identify them accurately before applying appropriate control measures. One way to control spider mites is to introduce natural predators like ladybugs or spraying the plant with neem oil. Regularly inspecting the plant for pests will also help to catch them early, before significant damage has occurred.
Some pests, like mealybugs and scale insects, can be removed manually by wiping the affected stems with a cotton ball soaked in soapy water. Remember to inspect the plant regularly to catch these pests before they become a severe problem.
In general, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regularly clearing any clippings or debris around the plant, can help to reduce the instances of diseases and pests. Additionally, avoiding over-fertilizing the plant and ensuring that it has the right amount of sunlight and water can go a long way in keeping it healthy.
