Harlequin Glorybower: A Fragrant Fall Bloomer with Colorful Berries
If you’re looking for a unique tree that puts on a spectacular show when most other plants are winding down for the season, meet the harlequin glorybower (Clerodendrum trichotomum). This distinctive tree brings fragrant white flowers and eye-catching berries to the late summer and fall garden, though it comes with some important considerations for American gardeners.
What Makes Harlequin Glorybower Special
The harlequin glorybower earned its whimsical name from its truly striking berry display. After the fragrant white flowers fade in late summer, the tree produces bright turquoise-blue berries nestled in brilliant red, star-shaped calyces. It’s like nature decided to throw a party with the most unexpected color combination – and somehow made it work beautifully.
The heart-shaped leaves add nice texture to the garden, and the whole tree has an informal, cottage garden charm that’s hard to resist. When those fragrant flowers bloom, they’ll attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators who appreciate the late-season nectar source.
Know Before You Grow: Native Status
Here’s where things get a bit complicated. Harlequin glorybower is not native to North America – it originally hails from China, Korea, and Japan. This tree has naturalized in several states and can reproduce on its own in the wild, currently found in Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
While it’s not currently classified as invasive in most areas, it’s worth considering native alternatives that provide similar benefits to local wildlife and ecosystems.
Growing Harlequin Glorybower Successfully
If you decide to grow harlequin glorybower, you’ll find it’s refreshingly easy-going. This perennial tree typically grows 13-16 feet tall and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Full sun to partial shade
- Well-draining soil (tolerates various soil types)
- Moderate moisture – not too wet, not too dry
- Space for it to spread, as it can produce root suckers
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
- Prune in late winter if you need to control size or shape
- Watch for root suckers and remove them if you want to prevent spreading
- Be patient – the best berry display comes as the tree matures
Garden Design Ideas
Harlequin glorybower works beautifully as a specimen tree where you can appreciate its unique berry display up close. It’s perfect for cottage gardens, mixed borders, or naturalized areas where its informal growth habit feels at home. The late-season interest makes it valuable for extending garden color into fall.
Consider Native Alternatives
Before planting harlequin glorybower, consider these native alternatives that offer similar benefits:
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier species) – beautiful spring flowers, edible berries, great fall color
- Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) – fragrant white flowers, dark berries beloved by birds
- Dogwood species – stunning flowers and berries, excellent wildlife value
- Native viburnums – many offer fragrant flowers and colorful fall berries
The Bottom Line
Harlequin glorybower offers undeniable beauty with its fragrant flowers and stunning berry display. It’s easy to grow and provides late-season interest when many gardens are fading. However, as a non-native species that can spread on its own, it’s worth weighing this choice carefully against native alternatives that provide similar beauty while supporting local ecosystems.
Whatever you choose, your garden will benefit from having something special to look forward to as summer transitions to fall!
