Clerodendrum trichotomum

Harlequin Glorybower, peanut butter tree

Deciduous Shrub, Tree

"Iconic in the city of Portland this small umbrella shaped tree lines streets and populates gardens throughout the city. Late summer brings masses of white flowers held in a red calyx that perfume the area for many blocks with a sweet jasmine fragrance. Following the flowers the calyx swells to a red star and a turquoise blue berry forms. To 16′ tall moderately fast in full sun and rich soil with regular summer irrigation. Avoid disturbance around established trees which can cause it to sucker annoyingly. Large tropical leaves have the fragrance of peanut butter when bruised. Little to no fall color. Japan."—Courtesy Xera Plants

Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9, 10

Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade, Afternoon Sun

Water Needs: Average

Description

Size: 120 - 240 tall x 120 - 240 wide
Shape / Form: Rounded
Foliage Texture: Coarse, Medium
Foliage Quality: Coarse, Medium

Features: Flowers, Fragrant, Showy Fruit or Berry, Drought-tolerant / Water wise

Foliage Color: Green

Flower Color: White, Ivory / Cream
Bloom Season: Summer, Late Summer / Early Fall
Flower Shape: Cluster

Fruit Description: Blue, Showy / Decorative, Red
Fruit Description: Tan

Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Mixed Border, Small Gardens, Specimen, Street Tree
Special Situations: Courtyard / Urban Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Water / No Water, Pest / Disease Resistance, Seaside / Salt Tolerant
Wildlife: Deer Resistant

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Summer, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Three Seasons of Interest
Position / Role: canopy
Plant Behavior: Suckers

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: medium