Clerodendrum trichotomum

That rather long and complex name comes from the Greek, combining klero = chance, and dendron = tree referring to the unpredictable medicinal properties of plants in this genus. It is also know as the Harlequin Glorybower, and the Peanut Butter Tree. It has been used as a medicinal plant from the earliest time.

So what are those medicinal properties – well, where shall I start? The leaves are mildly analgesic, antipruritic, hypotensive and sedative, and can be used externally in the treatment of dermatitis and internally for the treatment of hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain, numbness and paralysis. In a recent clinical trial, 171 people were given Clerodendrum, the blood pressure of 81% of those taking part dropped significantly - this effect was reversed when the treatment was stopped. The roots and leaves are antirheumatic and hypotensive and the pounded seed is used to kill lice!

Of course, the medicinal properties, impressive as they are, don’t make it a wonder plant, that results from its appearance. The flowers of the Clerodendrum are tubular, and red and white, with four prominent stamens – they have a strong and attractive fresh fragrance, like lemon scented towels is how some people describe it. But the true wonder of this plant is the shiny deep blue or turquoise berries framed by scarlet calyxes, that stand around each berry like a four pointed star, which form in late summer and hang on after leaves drop. And the leaves, when crushed, give off a mild but rich odour, described as being like Peanut Butter!

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