Japanese glorybower (Clerodendrum japonicum)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −1.1 °C
Cultivation
Succeeds in a sunny position in ordinary garden soil. A very ornamental plant. This species is almost certainly not hardy outdoors in Britain. Flowers are produced on the current seasons growth.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as possible in a greenhouse. Germination can be erratic but usually takes place within 20 - 60 days at 20°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts. Root cuttings, 6 - 8cm long, December in a greenhouse. High percentage. Division of suckers in the dormant season. Very easy, they can be planted out direct into their permanent positions if required.
Edible uses
Flowers. The leaves are also probably used.
Medicinal uses
The leaves are applied to boils. A decoction of the inflorescence is used in the treatment of gonorrhoea, haematochezia and nosebleed.
Habitat
Thickets in valleys, along streams and in grassy openings at elevations of 100-1200 metres.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan, India.