Clerodendrum Quadriloculare
Known as the "Starburst Bush" or "Shooting Star," Clerodendrum quadriloculare is a showstopper from the Philippines that looks like a permanent celebration in your landscape. Its most striking feature is the dramatic contrast between its forest-green leaves and deep eggplant-purple undersides, making it beautiful even when not in bloom. When it finally flowers, it produces spectacular clusters of tubular blossoms that resemble a frozen firework display in mid-air.
The species name quadriloculare refers to the plant’s seed pods, which are uniquely divided into four distinct chambers—nature’s way of neatly packaging the next generation of "fireworks."
| Humidity | High |
| Lighting | Shade |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Hibernation | Cold Period |
| Hardiness Zones | 9 - 10 |
To grow a Clerodendrum quadriloculare plant, follow these steps:


To fertilize this plant, first, choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Mix the fertilizer with water according to the package instructions. Then, apply the fertilizer solution to the soil around the base of the plant, taking care to avoid getting any on the foliage. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season, reducing to once a month during the winter months. Always water the plant thoroughly before and after fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Clerodendrum quadriloculare is a plant that benefits from being grown in well-draining soil, as it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. It prefers a soil that is rich in nutrients, so it is recommended to mix in a high-quality organic compost to aid in its growth. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is best to avoid heavy clay soils that can lead to waterlogging, as this can cause root rot. Furthermore, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can also lead to root rot. Therefore, it is recommended to allow the soil to slightly dry out between waterings.
To propagate this plant, select a healthy stem from the parent plant that is at least 6 inches long and has a few leaves and nodes. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle using a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem.
Prepare a potting mix by mixing equal parts of peat moss and perlite or sand. Moisten the mixture and fill a small pot with it.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and gently tap off any excess. Make a hole in the potting mix and insert the stem into it. Firmly press the soil around the stem to secure it.
Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect. Place it in a warm and bright spot, but away from direct sunlight.
Check the potting mix frequently to make sure it stays moist, but not soggy. After 2-3 weeks, gently tug on the stem to see if it has rooted. Once it has, remove the plastic bag and move the plant to a brighter spot.
Feed the new plant with a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote healthy root growth. Transplant it to a larger pot when it outgrows the initial one.
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