Butterfly Clerodendrum, Blue Glorybower

Clerodendrum ungandense Prain

cler-oh-DEN-drum   you-gan-DEN-see

Verbenaceae

Explanation of name: Clerodendrum, Greek for tree and chance, in reference to the varied medicinal properties of the species (HUX);  ugandense, from Uganda (WA1)

Natural range: Africa

Recognition: Open sprawling evergreen shrub with showy blue (-lavender or partly white) flowers vaguely in the shapes of butterflies. Flowers with 4 long protruding curved stamens. Blooms throughout year. Leaves simple, opposite or whorled.

Landscape uses: Fast-growing specimen shrub or border plant with very showy flowers. HUX notes that clerodendrums may be propagated using root cuttings.