African Tulip Tree

spathodea campanulata

Also known as: ["Fountain Tree","Nile Tulip Tree"]

Family: Bignoniaceae Genus: Spathodea Category: Trees

Overview

A large, deciduous tree native to tropical Africa, known for its vibrant, tulip-shaped flowers and distinctive seed pods.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae
Genus: Spathodea
Botanical Name: Spathodea campanulata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–12"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in filtered light if outdoors in hot climates.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun during peak hours.

Watering

every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, fertile soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C); thrives in tropical conditions.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches; pinch tips to encourage branching; remove crossing or crowded stems.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove dead or diseased wood.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure bottom drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; dilute properly; avoid overfertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Spathodea campanulata can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Spathodea campanulata is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Spathodea campanulata may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Spathodea campanulata due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of root tissues, impaired water and nutrient absorption, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the seeds or young leaves of Spathodea campanulata. The plant's toxic compounds can irritate the feline digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is observed.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of the seeds and young leaves of Spathodea campanulata can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds may cause irritation to the dog's digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and young leaves. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Spathodea campanulata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and young leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and young leaves. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How tall does the African Tulip Tree grow?

A: It can grow up to 50 feet tall in ideal conditions.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Q: Are the flowers fragrant?

A: Yes, the flowers have a mild, sweet fragrance.

Quick Reference
Family: Bignoniaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 3–5 days during active
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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