Chains of Glory- Snow shower- Manikkonna- Vellakonna-Clerodendrum

Botanical Details

• Common Name: Glory Bower, Clerodendrum Smithianum,manikkonna,Chains of Glory

• Scientific Name: Clerodendrum smithianum

• Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

• Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree

• Flower Color: Bright pink to deep red; large tubular flowers

• Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves

• Fragrance: Sweet and mildly fragrant

Care Guide

1.Sun Light

• Prefers full sun to partial shade.

• Best flowering occurs with at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

2. Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.

• Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.

• Avoid waterlogging as roots may rot.

3. Soil

• Thrives in well-draining, fertile soil.

• Soil mix: garden soil + compost + sand or perlite for drainage.

4 Fertilization

• Feed with a balanced fertilizer (NPK 10:10:10) every 6–8 weeks during active growth.

• Organic fertilizers like compost or cow dung are also beneficial.

5. Pruning

• Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth.

• Remove dead or weak branches to maintain health and shape.

6. Support

• Usually grows as a shrub or small tree, so no support is required, but it can also be trained along trellises.

Uses

1. Ornamental:

   • Grown for its striking flowers and glossy foliage in gardens, parks, and along pathways.

2. Attracts Pollinators:

   • Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies are drawn to its tubular flowers.

3. Medicinal (Traditional Use):

   • Some Clerodendrum species are used in folk medicine for treating fevers and inflammation (verify safety before use).

4. Landscaping:

   • Ideal for hedges, borders, and mixed shrub plantations due to its dense growth.

💡 Tip: This plant flowers more abundantly in full sun, but partial shade can be tolerated in very hot climates. Regular pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact, bushy shape.