Clerodendrum ugandense is a spring to fall flowering evergreen shrub that can attain heights to 10 feet when planted in ground. It has long arching branches with serrate, opposite 3-4" leaves. The shrub flowers on the current seasons growth so it can be pruned at any time to keep it to a desired size. The inflorescences are 4-10" long panicles of individual flowers, each having three to four pale blue lobes and one violet blue lobe. The flowers resemble little butterflies, hence one of the common names of "Blue Butterfly Bush". This Clerodendrum performs best in frost free climates but it is root hardy in zones 9 where it will freeze to the ground in harsh winters and re-sprout from the roots in spring. It does best in partial shade with regular watering during the active growth period but water should be reduced in the winter months. Clerodendrum ugandense makes an excellent container plant in colder climates where it can be moved to a protected location during the winter.

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Lovely blue blooms and so unique. This was grown from a rooted cutting (May, 2012); first blooms this spring April 2013.

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The seeds appear to be hard coat seeds suggesting that they probably have a long shelf life.

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