Question
I have a clerodendrum thomsoniae that I just bought in a 5 gal pot - plant is about 3 ft tall/3 ft wide...I live in zone 7.  Would like to know if I can plant in the ground & mulch in winter.  If it can be planted do I cut back?  What is the best way to grow this plant in my area.  It's rather hard to find any specific info.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Cindy,

Clerodendrum thomsoniae comes from tropical west Africa. It will survive outside only in Zones 10-12, but not Zone 7. In your area it would have to be used as an indoor plant.

It has a small, brilliant red flower inside a strkingly white bag-like calyx. It will bloom profusely in the spring and summer if it is kept potbound and rigorously pruned.

It must have very bright indirect sun in the summer and some direct light in the winter (a west or south window). Keep the soil evenly moist and fertilized from March through November.

It needs a short, semi-dormant rest period from December through February when the soil should get quite dry between waterings. It often sheds leaves during this period, so prune it back severely in December and again in late February. In March, resume normal watering and fertilizing and you will be rewarded with lots of flowers on the new growth.

Make sure temps stay in the 50 to 80 degree F. range. Be alert for spider mites on the undersides of the leaves.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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