Clerodendrum speciosissimum, Clerodendrum fallax, Clerodendrum japonicum

Clerodendrum speciosissimum (Java Glorybower) is a large shrub that grows 5-10 ft tall, popularly cultivated for its velvety leaves and large array of velvety crimson and vinous flowers. Native to tropical Africa and islands of the Pacific, and grown in USDA zones 9-11, this plant adds a dose of tropics and beauty to landscapes, and also provides a number of ethnomedical and healthful benefits.

It can abundantly flower throughout the years with minimal care, best situated in semi-shade, and needs keeping soil consistently moist. Its blooms are noted to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators especially in the warmer months. Additionally, its mature individuals are considered cold hardy, withstanding temperatures as low as 30s F for a short time. It is also known to be flood tolerant.

In cold regions it can still be grown but in pots, as they are not cold-hardy enough to tolerate temperatures below 30sF. When planted in pots indoors, potting soil should be used as opposed to garden soil. Spot light pruning and adequate drainage are also recommended.

For those wanting to include this remarkable plant in their backyard oais, consider a position that can benefit off the enhanced humidity provided by the tropical vibes of its foliage. The Java Glorybower boasts its flowers and the many healthful benefits they provide, along with a fantastical addition to any landscape.

Similar plants:

• Clerodendrum bungei (Cashmere (Cashmir) bouquet, Glory Bower, Clerodendron)
• Clerodendrum calamitosum (White Butterfly Bush)
• Clerodendrum heterophyllum, Clerodendrum aculeatum (Tree of little stars, Escambron, Tamourette)
• 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)