clerodendrum

[ kleer-uh-den-druhm, kler- ]

noun

1. any of numerous tropical trees or shrubs of the genus Clerodendrum, having clusters of variously colored flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of clerodendrum¹

< New Latin (Linnaeus), equivalent to Greek klēro- (combining form of klêros lot, chance) + déndron tree; allegedly so named in reference to the varying uses of its species, some being medicinal, some poisonous