Chou Wu Tong, Harlequin glorybower, Ferruginous clerodendrum, Harlequin Glory Bower

Clerodendrum trichotomum

Physical Characteristics

Clerodendrum trichotomum is a deciduous Tree growing to 6 m (19ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young sprouts and leaves - cooked[105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antipruritic Antirheumatic Hypotensive Parasiticide Sedative The leaves are mildly analgesic, antipruritic, hypotensive and sedative[176, 218, 254]. They are used externally in the treatment of dermatitis and internally for the treatment of hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain, numbness and paralysis[176, 218, 254]. When used in a clinical trial of 171 people, the blood pressure of 81% of the people dropped significantly - this effect was reversed when the treatment was stopped[254]. The plant is normally used in conjunction with Bidens bipinnata[218]. When used with the herb Siegesbeckia pubescens it is anti-inflammatory[254]. The roots and leaves are antirheumatic and hypotensive[147]. A decoction is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and hypertension[147]. The pounded seed is used to kill lice[218].

Known Hazards

None known