Glory Bower, Honolulu rose
Clerodendrum chinense

Family: Lamiaceae

What it is like

A shrub that loses its leaves during the year. It grows 1.2 m high and spreads 1.5 m wide. It produces vigorous root suckers. The branches are downy. The leaves are broadly oval and taper to the tip. They are 12.5 cm long. There are shallow teeth around the edge. The flowers are white and fragrant. They are tube shaped.

There are about 400 Clerodendrum species. It can be invasive.

Where it is found

It grows in tropical countries. It is best in a rich, moist, well-drained soil. It needs a protected partly shaded position. It is damaged by drought and frost.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, American Samoa, Argentina, Asia, Caribbean, China, Cook Islands, East Africa, Fiji, Guiana, Guianas, Guyana, Hawaii, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Laos, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines (country/location of origin), Rotuma, SE Asia, Seychelles, South America, Suriname, Venezuela, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The roots are dried and cooked with pork. The young leaves are used in salads.

Edible parts

Roots, medicine, leaves

How it is grown

Seeds are spread by birds. Plants can be grown by seeds or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Bei bing, Chou mo li, Chou mu dan, De ga pa me, Fragrant glorybower, Gong mie gian, Losa Honolulu

Synonyms

Clerodendrum fragrans Willd.; and others