Clerodendrum ugandense, known for its blue-purple inflorescences, is a shrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It blooms from July to August and is admired for its elegance. Due to its deciduous nature, it can be paired with evergreen shrubs for landscaping. Here's how to propagate Clerodendrum ugandense through cutting:
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Propagating Time: Cutting can be done from spring (April) to late autumn (end of September), with the optimal time being from late April to May. The temperature for rooting should range from 20 to 28°C, with an upper limit of 30°C and not less than 15°C.
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Cutting Selection: Choose robust semi-lignified young branches from the current year's growth. Trim off the tender tips, and remove flower clusters during summer and autumn cuttings. Leave only one small leaf on each leaf bud. Before cutting, soak the cut ends in potassium permanganate solution, then air dry before planting.
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Propagation Method: Use a mixture of humus soil and perlite in a 3:2 ratio as the substrate, or fine sand after sterilization. Water the substrate before cutting by misting to form a water film on the soil surface, then thoroughly water again.
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Aftercare: Before the cuttings root and establish, keep them shaded and moist. Mist the foliage 2 to 3 times a day in clear weather, and apply fungicides like carbendazim or bacillus subtilis every 7 to 20 days to prevent diseases.
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Additional Tips: When transplanting young Clerodendrum ugandense or newly purchased plants, mix peat soil and perlite in a 3:1 ratio as the planting soil. Incorporate slow-release fertilizer or organic manure like sheep dung at the bottom of the pot, press down the soil after potting, and water thoroughly without waterlogging the soil.
With suitable humidity and temperature, Clerodendrum ugandense cuttings usually root within 20 days. Reduce misting or stop completely thereafter.
