Clerodendrum bungei β The Velvet-Leafed Summer Showstopper
Clerodendrum bungei is an eye-catching shrub famed for its lush, large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves and spectacular late summer flower clusters. Its fragrant pale lilac-pink blooms appear in dense, rounded clusters, attracting butterflies and bees during the warmer months, adding a vibrant tropical touch to any garden.
This vigorous shrub forms a bushy, rounded shape, reaching heights of up to 2β3 metres in favourable conditions. The striking foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, its soft texture and deep green colour providing an unusual textural contrast in mixed borders or informal plantings.
Best suited to sheltered, sunny or partially shaded positions with moist, well-drained soil, Clerodendrum bungei thrives where it can enjoy a mild climate and protection from harsh winds. While it is hardy in milder regions, it may need some winter protection in colder zones.
Why Choose Clerodendrum bungei?
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Showy Summer Flowers β Fragrant clusters of pale lilac-pink blooms.
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Textural Foliage β Large, velvety heart-shaped leaves add depth.
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Wildlife Friendly β Attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.
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Tropical Appeal β Adds an exotic look to gardens.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade; sheltered from strong winds.
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Watering: Keep soil moist, especially during dry periods.
Feeding: Apply balanced fertiliser in spring for healthy growth.
Pruning: Cut back hard in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth and maintain shape.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a bold statement shrub in mixed borders.
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Combine with grasses or ferns for a lush, tropical effect.
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Ideal for sheltered garden corners or near patios.
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Plant alongside late-flowering perennials to extend the seasonβs interest.