Etymology

Clerodendrum means "tree (dendron in Greek) of destiny" (kleros in Greek refers to the object used for the drawing of lots), in reference to the genus’ curative properties. Chinense means "from China".

Description and flowering period

This shrub can reach 3 meters in height. Its branches are quadrangular in section and bear light-green, ovoid or triangular leaves with toothed margins which reach from 6 to 25cm long and wide and are hairy and deeply veined. The flowers are borne in dense terminal cymose inflorescences. The calyx is red or purple while the corolla is white or pale pink. On the "Flore Pleno" cultivar, inflorescences are double-flowered and look like a small bunch of roses; they however rarely produce fruits.

Uses

• Medicinal: It is used in decoctions to treat some cases of scabies.

Notes

Due to the species high adaptability and vigorous reproduction pattern, it can be hard to control. It has become invasive in many tropical and subtropical ecosystems, most noticeably pasture lands in Central America and the Caribbean.

Translated by: François Saint-Hillier – MNHN