Clerodendrum trichotomum carnival 'variegatum' - wilting? dying?
jridleysmith
Posts: 5
I planted this Clerodendrum trichotomum carnival 'variegatum' in 2010. We live in South West London and until now we have thoroughly enjoyed our beautiful tree which has grown to 4m x 4m roughly. Over the last week, it has gradually been wilting and dropping all of its leaves. Obviously, we've had a long period of dry, hot weather but the tree has been getting regular watering from our watering system. When I first noticed the wilting I thoroughly watered it. I've googled it and seen reference to wilt for these trees but no advice as to what to do now. I've put down some general purpose fertiliser and I'm watering it more. Should we be cutting it back? Should we just leave it and see if it revives? All advice very welcomed as this tree is a huge favourite of ours! Thank you.
Posts
I have wilt on an acer of mine sadly - verticillum wilt.
I first noticed a couple of years ago that the leaves on some branches were not properly developed.
The next year I noticed some black 'bruise' marks on the trunk and some stems.
The following year some of the branches had obviously died and I cut them out. Looking at the cut branches, I could see the tell-tale dark circles within the growth rings on the end of the cut branch.
As you can see from the above, wilt creeps up and does it's damage. It's not immediately apparent.
So I would think your tree has suffered with drought.
I think you're doing the right thing by watering it more, but don't feed it (I know you have already, but no more until it's recovered).
There are other members on the forum who have a good knowledge of viral/fungal infections (it was on this forum I discovered the fate of my acer) - hopefully one of them will be able to advise, but my thinking is a lack of water
Billericay - Essex
Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.
Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Thank you - your advice is much appreciated.
is this something to be very worried about?
You will be pleased to know that our cleodendron survived its wilt back in 2017. The leaves all dropped off, we thought it was dead but next spring, it sprouted back. The tree is looking a bit wilted this year too, so I think its very suspectable to drought, but its not as bad as it was in 2017.
Thanks for reaching out and I hope this gives you reassurance that there is a good chance your lovely tree is ok.
Good luck!
Jill