Clerodendrum thomsoniae Balf.f.

Nona makan sirih (Clerodendrum thomsoniae) is a climbing shrub up to 2-7 meters long of the Lamiaceae family, native to tropical West Africa, from Cameroon to Senegal, now popular as a city park ornamental worldwide. Its distinctive white-and-red flowers have long been used as traditional medicine. Nona makan sirih is believed to help address urinary stones and relieve ear inflammation in children.

Generally found in yards or parks, growing well up to elevations of 1,000 m above sea level. Prefers places with adequate sunlight, moist soil, and good drainage. Tolerant of various clay, loamy, sandy soil types at a pH ranging from acidic, neutral, to alkaline.

• Stem woody, young stem square-shaped, very finely hairy.
• Leaves single, 1-3 cm petiole, elongated ovate, paper-like texture, pointed tip, flat edges, shaped like a betel leaf but darker in color, finely hairy.
• Flowers compound raceme, emerging from twig tips or leaf axils. Sepals white, hairy, 1-3 cm long, corolla red, about 2 cm long.
• Fruit round, green in color, containing 2-4 seeds.

• Propagated generatively (seed) and vegetatively (cuttings).
• Prune to stimulate growth. Cut off wilted parts.

Alkaloid, flavonoid, steroid, terpenoid, phenolic, triterpenes, diterpenes, saponin, anthraquinones.

Remedy for syphilis, typhoid, cancer, high blood pressure, jaundice, urinary stones and diuretic, inflammation of the eardrum membrane (tympanitis) in children, reduces fever, removes toxins, treats bruises, wounds, and rashes.

Information not yet available.

Nona sirih, Bunga nyonya nginang (Batak), Sirih sirian, Kembang loro ati (Java).