Clerodendrum bungei – Glory Flower, the Fragrant Late-Summer Showpiece
Clerodendrum bungei, commonly known as the Glory Flower, is a bold and exotic-looking shrub prized for its spectacular domed clusters of richly fragrant, rose-pink flowers that burst into bloom in late summer and early autumn. Each flower head is composed of dozens of small, star-shaped blooms packed tightly together, creating a vivid, eye-catching display that draws in butterflies, bees, and other pollinators with ease.
The foliage of Clerodendrum bungei is equally impressive, with large, heart-shaped to broadly ovate leaves that carry a deep, rich green colour and a soft, slightly rough texture. The leaves have a distinctive, pungent scent when brushed or crushed, adding another sensory dimension to this remarkable plant. Growing with vigour, it forms a suckering, multi-stemmed shrub that can reach 2–3 metres in height, creating a lush, tropical character in borders and garden schemes.
Well suited to sheltered, sunny or lightly shaded positions, Clerodendrum bungei performs best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. While reasonably hardy in milder areas of the UK, it benefits from a sheltered spot with some protection from severe frost, particularly when young. Even if cut back by cold winters, established plants will often regenerate strongly from the base in spring.
Why Choose Clerodendrum bungei?
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Fragrant Summer Flowers – Dense, domed clusters of richly scented rose-pink blooms.
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Bold Tropical Foliage – Large, dramatic heart-shaped leaves with a distinctive presence.
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Wildlife Magnet – Irresistible to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators.
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Late-Season Interest – Flowers when many other shrubs have already finished.
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Resilient & Vigorous – Recovers well from cold, regenerating from the base with fresh new growth.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade; choose a sheltered spot protected from cold winds and hard frosts.
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil; tolerates most soil types provided drainage is good.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, particularly during dry spells.
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support vigorous growth and generous flowering.
Pruning: Cut back hard to near ground level in late winter or early spring to encourage strong new shoots and the best floral display. Remove unwanted suckers regularly to control spread.
Winter Care: In colder gardens, apply a deep mulch of bark or garden compost around the base in autumn to protect the roots from frost.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a bold statement shrub at the back of a mixed border for late-season drama.
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Pair with ornamental grasses or large-leaved perennials for a lush, tropical planting scheme.
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Plant near patios or seating areas where its evening fragrance can be fully appreciated.
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Combine with late-flowering perennials such as rudbeckias or dahlias to create a vibrant end-of-season display.
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Ideal for sheltered courtyard gardens where it can lend a Mediterranean or exotic atmosphere.
