Clerodendrum smithianum

Chains of Glory, Smith's Clerodendrum, Red Bleeding Heart Tree

If you're looking for a plant that's guaranteed to turn heads, Chains of Glory (Clerodendrum smithianum) is the one. Native to Thailand, this rare tropical shrub produces spectacular cascading clusters of blooms that look like strings of hanging lanterns before opening into elegant white flowers. It's one of the most breathtaking flowering plants in our collection and a must have for collectors who love unique, conversation starting plants.

The show begins with eye catching bronze red buds that resemble tiny light bulbs dangling from graceful stems. As the blooms open, they reveal beautiful white tubular flowers that create a stunning waterfall effect. Blooming from late fall through winter, this tropical beauty provides color when many other plants are taking a seasonal break.

Its glossy dark green foliage stays attractive year round, making it an excellent focal point for patios, tropical landscapes, or large decorative containers.

💚 Why You'll Love It

• Rare collector's plant that's difficult to find.
• Stunning cascading flower clusters unlike most tropical plants.
• Unique lantern like buds that transform into elegant white flowers.
• Blooms during late fall and winter.
• Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Makes an eye catching patio or landscape specimen.
• Moderate to fast growing in warm climates.
• Can be pruned to maintain a smaller size for containers.
• Adds an exotic tropical feel to any plant collection.

Plant Care

☀️ Light

Thrives in bright indirect light or partial sun. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal, especially in warmer climates. About 4 to 6 hours of bright light daily encourages the best flowering.

💧 Water

Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil begin to dry. Reduce watering slightly during winter while avoiding prolonged dry periods.

🌱 Soil

Plant in a rich, well draining potting mix that retains some moisture. A tropical potting mix amended with compost or orchid bark works beautifully.

💦 Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity (50% or higher). Indoor plants appreciate occasional misting or a nearby humidifier.

🌡️ Temperature

Grows best between 65°F and 85°F. Protect from frost and temperatures below 50°F.

🌿 Fertilizer

Feed every 3 to 4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce feeding during winter.

✂️ Pruning

Prune lightly after the winter blooming season to encourage branching and maintain a fuller, more compact shape.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Clerodendrum smithianum

Plant Type: Evergreen tropical flowering shrub

Mature Size: 6 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11

Bloom Time: Late fall through winter

Flower Color: Bronze red buds that open into creamy white flowers

Is It Pet Friendly?

No. Chains of Glory is not considered pet friendly. Keep out of reach of curious cats and dogs, as ingestion may cause stomach upset.

Fun Facts

• Native to Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia.
• Sometimes called the Waterfall Flowering Clerodendrum because of its dramatic cascading blooms.
• Belongs to the mint family, despite looking nothing like culinary herbs.
• Its nectar rich flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Makes an outstanding specimen plant for tropical gardens, patios, and large containers.
• One of the most unforgettable flowering plants for collectors looking to add something truly extraordinary to their collection.

Botanical Name

Clerodendrum smithianum

Common Names

Smith's Clerodendrum, Red Bleeding Heart Tree

Plant Type

Evergreen Tropical Flowering Shrub

Mature Size

6 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide

Sun Exposure

Bright indirect light to partial sun; prefers morning sun with afternoon shade

Soil Type

Rich, well draining soil with good moisture retention; slightly acidic to neutral

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil begin to dry

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity of 50% or higher

Bloom Time

Late fall through winter; may bloom at other times in tropical climates

Flower Color

Bright red buds that open to creamy white flowers in cascading clusters

Hardiness Zones

USDA Zone 10 to 11; protect from frost and temperatures below 50°F

Native Area

Northern Thailand and Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Not Pet Friendly; keep away from cats and dogs as toxicity has not been well established and ingestion may cause stomach upset

Plants ship from our location in Florida and arrive nationwide within 5-8 business days. All our plants ship exclusively with UPS to ensure they arrive timely and in good condition. For those users in Florida, George, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, shipping may be faster. Estimated shipping dates can be seen in checkout. Plant exclusions may apply.

We monitor the weather in each destination location to maximize the shipping time and utilize thermal protection to ensure that the plant is protected. You can add a heatpack or thermal bag to your order if temperatures at night fall below 40 degrees.

You can visit our shipping policy to learn more.