Rose Glory Bower Clerodendrum bungei
ABOUT
The common name for Clerodendrum bungei is Rose glorybower. This plant is known for its ornamental features and distinct fragrance. The leaves of Rose glorybower are large, heart-shaped, and have a somewhat velvety texture with a deep green color. The edges of the leaves are often slightly serrated, giving them a somewhat ragged appearance. During the blooming season, this plant produces dense clusters of flowers that are quite striking. The flowers are typically a deep pink or reddish-purple color, and they have a tubular shape that flares out into five distinct petal lobes at the end, creating a star-like form. The blooms emit a strong, pleasing scent that is especially intense in the evening or at night. The overall impression of the Rose glorybower is one of lush foliage with vibrant, showy clusters of flowers that can be a highlight in any garden where it is featured.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Rose Glory Bower, Cashmere Bouquet, Mexican Hydrangea, Glory Flower, Scent Malli.
Common names
Clerodendrum foetidum, Volkameria bungei, Volkameria foetida
ToxicityTo humans
The Rose Glorybower is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, sensitivity to it can vary from person to person. If ingested, some people might experience gastrointestinal discomfort or other mild reactions, but significant toxicity is unusual. Always exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
Rose Glorybower is not commonly listed as a toxic plant for pets, such as dogs and cats. However, individual animals might have sensitivities, and ingesting plant material could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of this plant and is showing symptoms, consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6-9
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - Clerodendrum bungei, commonly known as Rose Glorybower, is often used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and fragrant, showy pink flowers.
- Wildlife Attractant - The flowers of Rose Glorybower are known to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, which can be beneficial for the biodiversity of a garden.
- Shade Tolerant - It is relatively shade tolerant, meaning it can thrive in areas with dappled light or partial shade, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Fast Growth - Rose Glorybower is a fast-growing plant, allowing for quick establishment and filling in landscape areas that require rapid vegetation cover.
- Easy Propagation - The plant can be easily propagated through cuttings, making it simple and cost-effective for gardeners to enlarge their plantings or share with others.
- Screening Plant - Due to its dense growth habit, it can be used as a natural screen or hedge to enhance privacy in a garden setting.
- Aromatic Qualities - The flowers and leaves emit a pleasant aroma, which can add to the sensory experience of a garden or outdoor space.
- Drought Resistance - Once established, Clerodendrum bungei has a degree of drought resistance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Soil Adaptability - It is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, which means it can be grown in diverse environmental settings without requiring soil amendments.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Clerodendrum bungei has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial in reducing inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: Extracts from the plant have shown antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Analgesic: There is evidence suggesting that this plant may have pain-relieving effects.
- Antioxidant: The plant's compounds may provide antioxidant benefits, which can help in protecting the body from oxidative stress.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rose Glory Bower is used as a natural fence or hedge due to its dense foliage, providing privacy and reducing noise pollution.
- Florists may use Rose Glory Bower's brightly colored flowers as a filler in mixed bouquets to add a splash of color and texture.
- Its aromatic leaves can be crushed and used as a natural insect repellent in gardens and outdoor living spaces.
- The flowers can be used in potpourri mixes, providing a visual and fragrant element when dried.
- Gardeners plant Rose Glory Bower to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity.
- The woody stems can be used in small-scale basket weaving or as natural supports for other climbing plants in the garden.
- Its nectar-rich flowers can be a source of food for domesticated pet birds like parrots when grown in bird-friendly conservatories.
- In permaculture, Rose Glory Bower can be used in plant guilds to assist in building soil health and as a companion for certain fruit trees.
- Creative craftspeople may use the uniquely shaped leaves and flowers as natural stamps for eco-printing on fabrics or papers.
- Educational entities like schools and botanical gardens may include Rose Glory Bower in educational displays to teach about plant-pollinator relationships.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rose Glory Bower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rose Glory Bower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty in Balance: The Clerodendrum bungei, commonly known as the Cashmere Bouquet, is often associated with the concept of a balanced beauty due to its lush foliage and striking flowers which can symbolize the idea of finding harmony in aesthetics.
- Unexpected Surprise: As the Cashmere Bouquet has a distinct and pleasant fragrance, it often symbolizes the notion of an unexpected or hidden surprise, reflecting moments or experiences in life that can bring unforeseen joy.
- Healing and Relief: Due to its use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, the Cashmere Bouquet symbolizes healing and relief, representing the plant's supposed ability to alleviate certain ailments or discomforts.
- Heartfelt Expressions: The vibrant and expressive blooms of the Cashmere Bouquet can symbolize strong feelings or emotions, reflecting the plant's dramatic visual impact and its ability to convey deep, heartfelt expressions.
WaterRose glory bower, the common name for Clerodendrum bungei, should be watered regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, in spring and summer, water the plant once a week with approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons, depending on the size and stage of growth. Over winter, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering to ensure the plant does not experience excess moisture, which can lead to root rot. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
LightRose glory bower thrives best in partial shade to full sun. The plant will perform well when placed in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day with protection from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot is one where it gets filtered light or morning sun and shade during the peak intensity of the afternoon.
TemperatureRose glory bower is best kept in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. For optimal growth, avoid exposing the rose glory bower to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as excessive heat may stress the plant.
PruningPrune the rose glory bower to maintain its shape and to encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Pruning can be done every year or every other year, depending on the plant's size and your desired shape. Remove any dead or damaged stems and thin out overcrowded areas to allow light and air to penetrate the plant, which helps prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Cashmere Bouquet thrives in a soil mix that is rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic to neutral, with an ideal pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix containing loam, peat, and perlite in equal parts can provide the necessary drainage and nutrient retention.
RepottingCashmere Bouquet should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container, to ensure continued growth and prevent root-bound conditions.
Humidity & MistingCashmere Bouquet prefers high humidity levels, ideally around 60-70%, to thrive and maintain lush foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist for health.
Outdoor
Needs partial shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleClerodendrum bungei, commonly known as Rose Glory Bower, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typical in warm, moist soil conditions. The seedling emerges and develops a root system and foliage, growing into a bushy shrub with large heart-shaped leaves. As it matures, the plant produces clusters of fragrant pink flowers, usually in late summer to early fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers give way to small, blue-black drupes (fruits) enclosed in a red calyx, which can be distributed by birds, leading to new plants in different locations. In colder climates, the Rose Glory Bower may die back to the ground in winter but will typically resprout from the roots in spring. The plant continues to grow and repeat its reproductive cycle annually, with some species capable of spreading aggressively through underground runners.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the plant commonly known as Rose Glory Bower (Clerodendrum bungei) is by taking stem cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is vigorous, to allow the cutting enough time to establish roots before the cooler weather sets in. A healthy, non-flowering stem is selected, and a segment approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. It is important to maintain high humidity around the cutting, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Once rooted, usually within a few weeks, the new plant can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions before being planted out in its final location.
