Clerodendrum heterophyllum, Clerodendrum aculeatum

Clerodendrum heterophyllum (Tree of little stars) grows in full sun or semi-shade and prefers soil that is a bit acidic.

It is a large shrub, 5 - 10 ft tall, is tolerant to most soil types and can survive in USDA Zone 9-11. It produces white, off-white flowers that are slightly fragrant. It has a rather thorny or spiny character that adds to its beauty. Its nickname, Tree of little starsâ, is quite befitting since this plant looks like a thousand stars when in bloom.

Growth is easy with little care, as long as regular watering is maintained. In cold regions, it can be grown in pots and placed in sheltered areas. This shrub is attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds. It also has ethnomedical applications for treating a few ailments.

To maintain the aesthetic beauty of this shrub, light pruning is recommended every now and then. When pruning, it is important not to prune too much off and always maintain a uniform shape. The plant should be fertilized throughout the growing season, around once a month.

Overall, Clerodendrum heterophyllum is a great choice for a low-maintenance garden shrub that is sure to attract the attention of both butterflies and hummingbirds.

Similar plants:

• Clerodendrum bungei (Cashmere (Cashmir) bouquet, Glory Bower, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum calamitosum (White Butterfly Bush)
• Clerodendrum inerme, Volkameria inermis (Wild Jasmine, Sorcerers Bush, Seaside clerodendrum, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum mastacanthum, Rotheca mastacantha, Rotheca mastacanthus, Rotheca macrodonta (Pink Butterfly Bush)
• Clerodendrum minahassae (Fountain Clerodendrum, Clerodendron, Tube Flower)
• Clerodendrum paniculatum (Pagoda Flower, Orange Tower Flower, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum philippinum, Clerodendrum fragrans pleniflorum, Clerodendrum chinense, Volkameria fragrans (Chinese Glory Bower, Cashmere bouquet, Scent Malli, False Pikake, Glory Tree, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Winter Starburst, Fireworks, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum sahelangii, Clerodendrum indicum, Clerodendrum infortunatum (Champagne Clerodenrum, Turks Turban, Skyrocket, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum schmidtii, Clerodendrum smithianum (Chains of Glory, Lightbulb Flower)