Sterculia subracemosa Seeds | Sterculia
LATIN NAME: Sterculia subracemosa
COMMON NAME: Sterculia
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Sterculia (Sterculia subracemosa) is a tree in the mallow family (Malvaceae), native to warm forests of the south-eastern Asia, while its large seeds have a history of use as a roasted food of the region. A big tree of warm lowland forests, the Sterculia does not rush. Old trees develop a bold, fluted trunk and a wide, spreading canopy, and fallen leaves turn forest floor gold before new flush. Its broad, rounded crown and its large, glossy seeds make it a fine tree of warm avenue and the plantation. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the mallow family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Researchers interested in wild tree seeds of warm forests have looked at the Sterculia for its large, oily, starchy seeds. The practical point for growers is that this plant has been observed in gardens for so long that its behaviour holds few surprises.
Uses & Benefits
Sterculia brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. For anyone with a warm garden, the Sterculia is a tree that gives all year. Its broad, rounded crown throws a good shade, and its large, glossy seeds feed birds and forest creatures, while its bold, boat-shaped fruits are a talking point on their own. Its seeds have a history of use as a roasted food in region, and its quick, generous growth has made it a valued shade tree of warm avenues and the plantations. Given the right start, it carries on with minimal intervention.
Sterculia gives the voice-soothing Pang Da Hai seed and stately tropical shade trees; the seed’s swelling mucilage makes it the classic singer’s tea.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Sterculia under ordinary good conditions. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in bright light until the seedlings are well up. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Among the Sterculia group, it is one of the more distinctive species in cultivation. Young plants want steady water; older plants take conditions as they come.
Related Reading
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