Blue Butterfly Bush (Clerodendrum ugandense)

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Sunlight Full to partial sun; tolerates dappled shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch

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Watering Water thoroughly when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C

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Leaf: Opposite, ovate to elliptical, glossy dark green with serrated margins
Flower: Vibrant blue, butterfly-shaped blooms with white throats; clustered in terminal inflorescences
Stem: Woody, branching stems with light brown bark as it matures

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; increase frequency in hot, dry weather

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy, weak growth

Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support abundant flowering

Pruning

Prune spent blooms promptly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact, bushy shape
Remove dead or diseased branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its vivid blooms