A
striking tropical
tree with large clusters of red-orange, flame-colored flowers appearing summer
through fall. The African Tulip Tree is deciduous in Southern California,
where it is usually a smaller umbrella-shaped tree than its native counterpart
in Central Africa, where it becomes a majestic 50-foot specimen. The large
pinnate, compound leaves can grow to 15 inches. Each one consists of dark
green two- to four-inch leaflets which provide just the right background for
the large terminal clusters of velvety brown, claw-like buds. These buds open
two to five at a time, revealing the five-inch trumpet-shaped, scalloped flowers.
The bark is roughly furrowed and dark gray. A golden-yellow flowered variety
has also been seen. This tree is frost-sensitive and is best used in a protected
area.
CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS: |
| Size: 10 years |
20' - 25' height |
12' - 18' spread |
Mature |
30' - 40' height |
20' - 30' spread |
|
Exposure:
|
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