Dumdum (Clerodendrum Inerme)

Dumdum, commonly known as Wild Jasmine and scientifically called Clerodendrum inerme, is an attractive flowering shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is a compact plant that typically grows to a height of 30–40 cm, making it suitable for borders, low hedges, and decorative garden planting. The plant has slender stems with glossy green, oval-shaped leaves that are pointed at the tips and arranged in an opposite pattern, giving it a neat and tidy appearance.

The most striking feature of Wild Jasmine is its delicate, fragrant flowers. The blooms are small, tubular, and white, releasing a pleasant scent that attracts bees and butterflies. They appear in clusters at the ends of branches and are highlighted by bright red bracts, which add a vivid contrast and enhance the plant’s ornamental value. Hardy and adaptable, Dumdum grows well in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, and performs well in warm climates.

Caring for your Dumdum (Wild Jasmine)

Difficulty level: Easy
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Watering schedule: Moderate; water regularly during dry periods
Soil type: Sandy, loamy, or clay; well-draining soil preferred
Humidity: Moderate
Fertilization: Every 2–3 months during growing season
Pruning: Regular trimming to maintain shape and encourage flowering
Pet friendliness: Mildly toxic if ingested