Everybody in South Florida is talking about Winter Starburst again. This time of year the shrub bursts forth with a floral display like no other. The flowers eventually spread to about 10 inches across and the shrub itself can grow to 10 feet tall. A Winter Starburst Clerodendrum in full bloom is nothing short of spectacular. A bonus to the Winter Starburst is deep green coarse textured foliage with purple backs that look great year round.
My first January in South Florida I nearly wrecked my car trying to get a good look at this shrub and figure out what it was. It is a showstopper that resembles a funky tropical rhododendron. Here’s the scoop, the botanical name is Clerodendrum quadriloculare. These shrubs are native to Southeast Asia and members of the Clerodendrum genus of plants which encompasses vines, shrubs and vining shrubs. Given their viny tendencies these plants can be troublesome in our gardens, they can spread unchecked and lend either – overgrown or if you prefer, a cottage garden vibe to your environs.
The photos above are of my late Winter Starburst. It expired last year due to poor installation and maintenance by the owner. It is true that these plants need partial shade and moist soil until well established. As I live in Scruburbia (Florida Scrub – sand, not sandy soil) I did not take the advice to heart and prepare the soil or water regularly. However, having witnessed another winter display from this shrub, I think I will try another planting or three!
The Shrub Queen 
That shrubs puts on a fireworks show…bedazzled.
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I agree! if only I hadn’t killed it..
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It sounds gloriously florious! Hope your new year goes well.
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Thank you it is gloriously florious! did you make that up?
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Doesn’t it sound like the kind of silly thing I’d do? Yes, I did.
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Stunning! I think it may get too cold here for them, but I sure would like one.
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I think it is too cold there, I can’t think of anything comparable – are you too far south for Mountain Laurel?
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Texas Mountain Laurel will grow here, but not well . It prefers really dry, limestone soil of the Hill Country. Any Mountain Laurel from up north will not grow here.
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I love it. I saw it in Martinique and wondered what on earth it could be. And now I know. You get to grow such gorgeous things in Florida.
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I agree and love the Starburst as well, there are some orange Clerodendrum around I am not so sure about..
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Can I dig up an the roots of a small bush (2 ft) and transplant?
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yes, I would do that after it rains so you will get a firm root ball.
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