Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glorybower)

Prized for its lovely flowers and brightly colored fruit, Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glorybower) is a deciduous large shrub or small tree of great ornamental interest. From midsummer to fall, large, loose clusters of wonderfully fragrant white flowers, subtended by balloon-like pink calyces, are produced in the upper leaf axils. Grabbing the attention, they attract hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators. The blossoms are followed by small metallic bright blue fruits adorned with contrasting star-shaped red calyces.

Prized for its lovely flowers and brightly colored fruit, Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glorybower) is a deciduous large shrub or small tree of great ornamental interest. From midsummer to fall, large, loose clusters of wonderfully fragrant white flowers, subtended by balloon-like pink calyces, are produced in the upper leaf axils. Grabbing the attention, they attract hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators. The blossoms are followed by small metallic bright blue fruits adorned with contrasting star-shaped red calyces. The foliage of soft, ovate, dark green leaves, up to 5 in. long (12 cm), is noted for its unique peanut butter scent when crushed. A great addition to the late season garden when few other flowering shrubs offer color.

  • Grows up to 10-20 ft. tall and wide (3-6 m). Give this shrub plenty of space. This plant spreads, so be prepared to remove its suckers in the fall or spring – A small price to pay for such beauty.
  • Easily grown in organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade.
  • Great as a specimen plant or in shrub borders.
  • Can be treated as an herbaceous perennial and cut to the ground each winter in cold areas.
  • Virtually disease free and pest free.
  • Propagate by root cuttings or semi-hardwood cuttings.
  • Native to Japan.

Requirements

Hardiness 7
– 10

Heat Zones 7
– 9

Climate Zones 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Clerodendrum
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid,Late)Fall
Height 10'
– 20'
(3m
– 6m)
Spread 10'
– 20'
(3m
– 6m)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Fruit & Berries
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage