The African tuliptree typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
African tuliptree
Spathodea campanulata
The African tuliptree (Spathodea campanulata) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical Africa and widely cultivated elsewhere. Its foliage is a deep green and the five-petalled flowers have bright orange to red-orange petals. Beautiful blooms appear in mid-spring from bright pink buds and the long seedpods are reminiscent of tulips. It is both drought and frost tolerant, thrives in full sun and requires little in the way of supplemental water or fertilizer once established. African tuliptrees are an excellent choice for landscaping, providing ornamental interest and providing shade.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 11
Flowers:
Reddish-orange with yellow corolla margin Flowers
Sun:
full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Invasive:
Yes
Tropical:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
The African tuliptree prefers regular watering, at least once a week, and more when it is hotter. During the growing season (spring and summer) it should be watered deeply but not overwatered. During the winter months, the frequency of watering should be reduced, to about once every 2 weeks. Soil should be kept slightly moist but not soggy, and do not forget to check for drainage. If there is standing water in the pot, you may need to reduce the amount of water being applied.
sunlight
African tuliptrees require abundant sunlight to flourish. They should receive 8 to 10 hours of direct sun each day to thrive. If placed in partial shade, they will grow, but more slowly and not as lushly. In its natural range, African tuliptrees commonly occur in open savannas and forest margins. Planting a African tuliptree in bright, indirect light is ideal for those growing it in a container.
pruning
African tuliptrees require regular pruning to help them remain healthy and maintain their shape. Pruning should be done at least once a year, preferably in the late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. The best time to prune an African tuliptree is when it is dormant, but before buds begin to form. Prune branches to promote strong growth, reduce the size of the tree canopy, and to thin out old or diseased branches. Proper pruning can help African tuliptrees remain vigorous and healthy, and increase their flowering potential. Be sure to use sharp stainless-steel tools when pruning to help reduce the risk of spreading disease between plants.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
The African tuliptree typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
