Blue Butterfly Bush
Clerodendrum ugandense
Ugandense
About this plant
Clerodendrum ugandense, commonly called the Blue Butterfly Bush, is a tropical shrub known for its striking blue and purple flowers that resemble butterflies. It has large green leaves and produces clusters of tubular flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. This plant is popular in gardens for its ornamental beauty and fast growth.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Clerodendrum
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Uganda, Kenya, East Africa
- Distribution
- Native to East Africa, especially Uganda and Kenya; cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.
Clerodendrum ugandense is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers bright sunlight and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root problems, so allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It grows quickly and benefits from regular pruning to maintain shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Large green leaves and clusters of blue-purple butterfly-shaped flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally considered non-toxic but avoid ingestion. Sap may irritate skin in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Clerodendrum ugandense may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive people due to contact with its sap. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that triggers allergies. To reduce any risk, avoid touching the sap and wash hands if contact occurs.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot from overwatering and leaf yellowing if light is insufficient. Pests are rare but watch for aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Grown mainly as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and ability to attract pollinators like butterflies.
Notes
Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Repot young plants annually to refresh soil. Protect from frost and cold drafts.