CLERODENDRUM TRICHOTOMUM - 8L089-

Scientific name: Clerodendrum trichotomum

Common names: Harlequin tree, Clerodendrum trichotomum, Japanese Clerodendrum

Family: Lamiaceae

Origin: Eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea)

Botanical description

Clerodendrum trichotomum is a shrub or small deciduous tree, highly ornamental thanks to its fragrant summer flowers and brightly colored autumn fruits. It generally reaches 3–5 meters in height, with a rounded habit and dense branching.

The leaves are large, ovate, strongly aromatic when rubbed, and deep green. In summer (July-September), it produces white star-shaped flowers with pink-purple calyxes, gathered in highly decorative terminal panicles. The fruits ripen in autumn, turning a bright metallic blue, surrounded by bright red calyxes, offering a spectacular color contrast.

Cultivation and care

• Location: Prefers full sun or bright partial shade.
• Soil: Adapts well to many soil types, provided they are well-drained and fertile. Prefers slightly acidic or neutral substrates.
• Watering: Regular during the first few years and during dry periods. Moderately drought-resistant.
• Pruning: To be done in late winter to maintain its shape and stimulate flowering.
• Hardy: It is cold-resistant, down to about -15°C.
• Other tips: It tolerates urban pollution, also ideal for city gardens.

Flowering and fruiting

• Flowering period: July – September
• Flower color: White with pink/red calyx
• Fruit: Bright turquoise blue, decorative until late autumn
• Fragrance: Sweet, very intense, even at Distance

Ornamental Uses

• Isolated ornamental tree
• Free hedges and windbreaks
• Mixed borders
• Growing in large pots for terraces
• Scented and naturalistic gardens

Strengths

- Fragrant summer flowering

- Very colorful ornamental fruits and calyxes

- Attracts butterflies and pollinators

- Hardy and easy to grow

- Leaves and stems aromatic to the touch