Clerodendrum chinense (Osbeck) Mabb. 1989, commonly called Chinese Glory Bower, Stickbush or Cashmere Bouquet, is a flowering shrub, native to South China.

Clerodendrum chinense (synonyms: Clerodendrum fragrans, Clerodendrum philippinum) is considered as a highly invasive weed in many tropical and subtropical countries, as the woody shrub reproduces aggressively by root suckers and is forming dense thickets, that exclude other plants. The Chinese Glory Bower is listed as an invasive species in Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The evergreen shrub, with its highly fragrant flowers, belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and reaches heights up to about 3 meters. Flowers, grouped in impressive flower-balls, get a size of about 2,5 cm in diameter and attract butterflies. The Chinese Glory Bower requires a warm - hot, humid climate and doesn`t tolerate freezing temperatures below 1° C. The tropical plant is best cultivated in partial shade to full sun.

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Image: Chinese Glory Bower (Clerodendrum chinense)