Clerodendrum trichotomum
Images by part: leaf (5) · flower (5) · fruit (5) · bark (5) · habit (5) · other (5)

Clerodendrum trichotomum

Glorytree · Harlequin Glorybower · Glory bower · Harlequin glory bower · Dạ ngọc minh châu

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Water every
10 days
Temperature
15–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 6–11
Click count
646
Observations
3,042

Description

Source: leafsnap

Clerodendrum trichotomum, the harlequin glorybower, glorytree or peanut butter tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, India, and the Philippines.It is a large deciduous shrub, growing 3–6 metres (10–20 ft) high. The leaves are ovate, up to 12 cm (5 in) long, soft and downy or hairy, producing a peanut odor when crushed. The fragrant flowers are borne on branching peduncles. They have white petals, held within a green calyx which turns red as the fruits ripen. The fruits (drupes) are white, changing to bright blue and eventually dark blue on maturity. They contain the novel blue pigment trichotomine.It is cultivated for its fragrant flowers, autumn colour, and ornamental berries. It is hardy but requires a sheltered position. The variety C. trichotomum var. fargesii (Farges' harlequin glorybower) and the cultivar C. trichotomum var. fargesii 'Carnival' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. (confirmed 2017).

🌳 Beyond its decorative appeal, harlequin glorybower has aromatic leaves that could be investigated for essential oils. Its striking, pearl-like drupes also present an unexpected novelty for ornamental crafts. Although these applications are not widespread, there is potential to leverage these traits in niche markets such as boutique gardening or artisanal crafts.

🎭 Achievement, honor and good fortune

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 1-2 weeks

The Harlequin glorybower thrives in environments with balanced moisture and displays a moderate tolerance to drought. It's essential to water it every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Providing ample hydration during the growing season is crucial, as it enhances the plant's flowering and highlights its ornamental qualities.

Suggested frequency: Every 1-2 weeks
FAQ
How should I water my Harlequin glorybower?

To promote strong root development, place a garden hose at the base of your plants. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, as this could require more watering, especially if the plants are outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight. Consider using bubblers or soaker hoses to keep the roots moist. When adding or removing plants, you can use soaker hoses that cover the entire garden bed to ensure deep root penetration. Make sure to drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is recommended to prevent diseases. On sunny days, spraying the entire bush with water can be beneficial. Whether your Harlequin glorybower is in a pot or planted in the ground, remember that it prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

What should I do if I give too much or too little water to Harlequin glorybower?

If a Harlequin glorybower is overwatered, its leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt. The plant will also look dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. When you start seeing these signs, it's best to adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also be a sign of under watering. Underwatered leaves will turn crispy and dry, while overwatered leaves will be soft and wilted. If the soil is dry and simply watering is not enough, give the plant a thorough watering. This will help the Harlequin glorybower recover, but it may still have dry and yellow leaves for a few days due to the damaged roots. Once it returns to normal, the yellowing leaves will stop. When you have a Harlequin glorybower indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot to avoid overwatering. Look for signs of black spots which indicate possible overwatering. If present, allow the soil to dry out by not watering for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you notice discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. Always try to prevent root rot by avoiding excessively soggy soil. When planting a Harlequin glorybower outdoors, make sure to dig a little deeper. If the soil feels too dry when you check with your fingers, it could indicate underwatering. Adequate watering is necessary to help the plant recover.

How frequently do I need to water my Harlequin glorybower?

The Harlequin glorybower prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots. In pots, the soil dries out faster due to limited water storage. If living in a cold region, water every 3 to 5 days, preferably in the morning when the soil is dry. Check the soil's moisture level by feeling the top 2-3 inches. If dry, water the plant fully. During hot days, check moisture daily as the soil can dry out quickly. If you have a garden, water once a week in hot climates. Only water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Take rainfall into consideration and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Add mulch 3-4 inches deep when the Harlequin glorybower is grown outdoors to conserve water. Adjust watering frequency based on soil type - sandy soil requires more frequent watering, while clay soil requires less. Keep track of watering dates to avoid dehydration of the plant. Drooping leaves may indicate a need for watering.

How much water does my Harlequin glorybower plant need?

The Harlequin glorybower requires about a gallon of water on a regular schedule. For potted plants, it is best to water them deeply until you see water dripping from the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to dry before watering again. You can use a water calculator or moisture meter to determine how much water you have given your plant in a week. During the flowering period, provide plenty of water but allow the moisture to evaporate to prevent root rot. If the Harlequin glorybower is planted outdoors with sufficient rainfall, additional watering may not be necessary. When the plant is young or newly planted, make sure it receives 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the Harlequin glorybower grows, it can rely solely on rainfall. However, if the weather becomes extremely hot or there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, consider giving the plant a full watering during the cooler part of the day to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be needed during prolonged dry periods.

Should I change how often I water my Harlequin glorybower depending on the time of year or the weather conditions?

To keep your Harlequin glorybower healthy, it is important to water it appropriately based on the season and weather conditions. During the spring and fall, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Alternating between dry and moist soil conditions will promote good growth. In the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate quickly, so water more frequently if there is a lack of rainfall. During the winter, the plant needs less water as it goes dormant and loses its leaves. Use a well-draining soil mixture and water sparingly. Once the plant begins to leaf out in the spring, you can increase watering to encourage growth and blooming. Ensure good drainage at all times, especially in pots. Deeply soak the roots once or twice a week, avoiding shallow sprinkles that can promote fungal growth. Don't allow the plant to completely dry out in the fall or winter. Avoid overwatering, as this can be detrimental to the plant. Applying mulch can help conserve water and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

Harlequin glorybower prefers continuous sunlight but can tolerate situations where sun is intermittent or even limited. Native to habitats rich in sunlight, it shows its strongest growth under those conditions. Care should be taken to avoid both excessive and insufficient light, as either can adversely affect its health.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Harlequin glorybower?

Harlequin glorybower requires full sun, which means it should receive above 6 hours of sunlight daily. It can also grow in conditions with partial sun or full shade, where it would get about 3-6 hours of sunlight. Observing how sunlight moves through your garden will help in choosing locations that provide the right balance of light and shade, ensuring the plant's well-being.

Can Harlequin glorybower grow under artificial lighting?

Yes, Harlequin glorybower can grow under artificial lighting, especially when natural sunlight is insufficient, such as during winter or in less sunny locations. Artificial lights, like LED lights, are beneficial as they can be customized to provide specific wavelengths needed for plant growth. The amount of artificial light required varies depending on the plant's natural sunlight needs: full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft, partial sun plants 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants 10-20W/sq ft. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant, and plants typically need 8-12 hours of light per day.

What are the symptoms of improper lighting for Harlequin glorybower?

Harlequin glorybower can show several symptoms if it's not receiving the right amount of light. These include small or pale new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or no new growth, and symptoms of overexposure such as chlorosis, sunscald, leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching. These symptoms indicate that the plant is struggling with either too little or too much light.

How can I improve lighting conditions for Harlequin glorybower indoors?

To improve lighting conditions for Harlequin glorybower indoors, gradually move the plant to a sunnier location each week until it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window for maximum sunlight and keep curtains open during the day. If the plant is large or not easily movable, consider using artificial light. Keeping a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or investing in professional plant grow lights can provide ample light for growth.

What are the solutions for lighting issues with Harlequin glorybower outdoors and on the ground?

For outdoor Harlequin glorybower plants, gradually acclimatize them to brighter conditions by moving them to sunnier spots weekly, avoiding sudden light intensity changes to prevent sunburn. If the plant is suffering from light obstruction, identify and reduce obstructions such as tree branches that block sunlight. For smaller ground-planted specimens, consider transplanting during the dormant period (late winter or early spring) to a location with ample sunlight and good drainage. Note that parts of the plant already affected by insufficient light may not recover, but new growth will be healthy after increasing light exposure.

🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C

The harlequin glorybower plant is native to regions with temperatures between 15 and 35 ℃ (59 to 95 ℉). It favors moderate temperatures and can endure some fluctuations. In cooler months, it may benefit from being moved to a slightly warmer spot or given a heat source. During hotter months, it may benefit from being placed in a slightly cooler spot or provided with shade.

Ideal temperature: 15–35°C
FAQ
What is the ideal temperature range for Harlequin glorybower?

The Harlequin glorybower plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 15 to 35°C (59 to 95°F). It is well-suited to moderate temperatures and can handle some fluctuations. During cooler months, it's beneficial to place the plant in a warmer spot or provide a heat source, whereas in hotter months, positioning it in a cooler location or providing shade can help. The plant possesses strong cold resistance, minimizing the need for frost protection in winter. Nonetheless, if temperatures are forecasted to fall below the plant's growth limit, protective measures such as wrapping the trunk and branches with non-woven fabric or cloth are advisable. To aid in drought and water scarcity prevention during winter and early spring, abundant watering before the first autumn freeze to maintain soil moisture is recommended.

How does Harlequin glorybower react to low and high temperatures, and what are the solutions?

Harlequin glorybower is notably cold-tolerant, thriving best when temperatures stay above its minimum suitable growth threshold. In winter, it should remain above its tolerable growing minimum temperature. Below this limit, while immediate effects may not be evident, branches could become brittle and dry by spring, with a lack of new shoots. The solution is to prune these unproductive branches in spring. Conversely, during high temperatures exceeding its maximum suitable growth threshold, the plant's leaves may lighten, tips can dry and wither, and it becomes prone to sunburn. The remedy includes trimming sunburned and dried parts, relocating the plant to a shaded area or using a shade cloth to protect it from midday and afternoon sun, and watering in the mornings and evenings to ensure the soil stays moist.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Fertilize your Harlequin glorybower in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts overall health, leading to vigorous growth, improved tolerance of harsh conditions, and increased resistance to pests and diseases. Keep to a defined fertilization schedule for your Harlequin glorybower to maintain vibrant, deeply colored foliage and a lush appearance.

FAQ
Why should I use fertilizer on my Harlequin glorybower?

If you own any kind of Harlequin glorybower, regular fertilization is key to ensuring overall plant health. Providing the right nutrients will promote stronger growth and increase resilience to harsh growing conditions, while also improving the plant's ability to fend off diseases and pests. It's important to pay attention to the foliage of your Harlequin glorybower, as it is one of its most attractive features. To maintain healthy and vibrant leaves, stick to a consistent fertilization schedule tailored to your specific plant. This will encourage the development of deep-colored and lush leaves.

What is the best time to fertilize my Harlequin glorybower?

Fertilize your Harlequin glorybower for the first time in late winter or early spring to give it the nutrients it needs for healthy growth when the weather warms up. If you live in a warm climate region, it is beneficial to fertilize again in early fall. This provides additional nutrients for the following growing season and helps the plant withstand winter cold without foliage damage. Early fertilization ensures that new branches have enough time to grow and withstand the winter.

When is the best time to not fertilize my Harlequin glorybower?

There are a few times during the year when you should avoid fertilizing your Harlequin glorybower. First, during the early and mid-winter months when the plant is dormant and doesn't need nutrients. Secondly, it's not recommended to fertilize in late spring and all of summer because the weather is typically hotter and drier, which can negatively affect the plant's response to fertilization. To prevent any issues, it's best to stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding only in early spring and early fall.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Harlequin glorybower?

Harlequin glorybower plants primarily require nitrogen for their growth, although phosphorus and potassium are also essential to their overall health. While a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 can suffice, a more specific nutrient ratio will promote optimal growth. Typically, fertilizers with slightly higher nitrogen content, like a 10-6-4 ratio, tend to be more effective. Both granular and liquid fertilizers can be used to nourish the plant.

How should I fertilize my Harlequin glorybower?

To give your Harlequin glorybower the right nutrients, you can choose between granular or liquid fertilizer. With granular fertilizer, simply sprinkle it on the soil at the right time and it will slowly release nutrients over time. It's a good idea to lightly water your Harlequin glorybower before applying fertilizer. Liquid fertilizer is less common but an option. Mix it with water and pour it around the base of your plant. If you want to make sure the soil's pH is right, it's helpful to do a soil test before fertilizing.

🪴 Pot & Repot Every 12 months
Suggested frequency: Every 12 months
✂️ Pruning

The Harlequin glorybower is known for its eye-catching clusters of white flowers and blue berries. To maintain its shape and vigor, it needs to be pruned annually in early spring. Be sure to trim away any dead or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth, improve flowering, and ensure good air circulation. This will help prevent disease and enhance its ornamental appearance.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Clerodendrum
Family
Lamiaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-10
Mature Height
1.52 m to 10.06 m
Mature Spread
3.05 m to 6.1 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
Bloom Time
Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
India, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Koppen, South Korea, China

Tags (22)

Common Names (6)

en Glorytree
en Harlequin Glorybower
en Glory bower
en Harlequin glory bower
en Dạ ngọc minh châu
en Peanut Butter Tree