Harlequin glorybower (Clerodendrum trichotomum) klare-oh-DEN-drum trik-oh-TOE-mum Genus:  Clerodendrum This large shrub offers a late-summer display of jasmine-like white flowers encased in red tepals and scent. Bright blue berries in autumn are accented by conspicuous bright, pinkish-red calyxes. Noteworthy Characteristics:  When crushed, the foliage smells like unsweetened peanut butter, thought it is often described as "fetid." Care:  For best bloom and berries, plant in full sun in rich, well-drained, loamy soil. Site plants in areas that receive frequent mowing as they tend to sucker. Reputedly hardy to Zone 6, but there may be some winter dieback north of Zone 7. Can be treated as an herbaceous perennial and cut to the ground each winter in cold areas. Propagation:  Remove suckers in autumn or spring. Root semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Insert root cuttings in winter. Problems:  Common pests include whitefiles, mealybugs, and aphids. Galls, cankers, and a few leaf spots occur.

Overview

Height 10 ft. to 15 ft. Spread 10 ft. to 15 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Characteristics Fragrant Flowers, Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, White Uses Beds and Borders Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs