Question by Shirley B.
My 6 Clerodendrum ugandense plants are only a few years old but are rather scraggy. Would it be beneficial to trim them right back? I live in Bundaberg and the plants were bought as cuttings. Many thanks for you help.
Sarah's answer
Hi Shirley,
This plant has such beautiful flowers, but over the winter can look a little scruffy. It does have a tendency to get quite leggy if it isn’t pruned. As it produces flowers on new shoots, it is best to prune in late winter before the new season’s growth begins. It is possible to trim it at any stage to control the growth and the plant will be ok, but pruning now will mean losing the flowers. Deadheading spent flower spikes will encourage new flowers during the growing season and prevent the spread of the seeds.
All the best with them. I hope you get them under control so you can enjoy their beauty.
Cheers Sarah
