Spathodea campanulata Seeds | African Tulip Tree
LATIN NAME: Spathodea campanulata
COMMON NAME: African Tulip Tree
Plant Profile
Spathodea campanulata, commonly known as African Tulip Tree, is a generous, fast-growing tree. Broad, open crown carries clusters of large, cup-shaped, tulip-like flowers in a vivid orange-red, and tree flowers in flushes through much of year in the right climate. Large, compound leaves give crown a fine, full look, and tree is a rich nectar source that pulls in birds and the bees. It is a generous, fast-growing tree for warm, open garden. Add these qualities together and you have a species well worth a place in the garden.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the Spathodea group, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. The African tulip tree has a quiet but real presence in plant science. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, African Tulip Tree earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. The African tulip tree is grown for its bold, generous flowering, and it is planted along streets and in gardens of warm world as one of great flowering trees. Nectar-rich flowers are a fine food source for birds and bees, and broad crown gives a fine, dappled shade. Light, soft wood has its uses in traditional practice of region, and tree is a fine, fast choice for warm, open garden that has room for it. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
The African tulip tree is a flamboyant tropical ornamental; folk records exist, but its red-orange fountains of bloom are the point.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for African Tulip Tree, and the process is uncomplicated. 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. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
African Tulip Tree is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Give the seed freshness and steady moisture, and nature handles the rest.
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