Spathodea Campanulata

Spathodea campanulata, commonly known as the "African Tulip Tree" or "Flame of the Forest," is a large, fast-growing, and striking flowering tree belonging to the family Bignoniaceae. Native to tropical regions of West Africa, this tree has been widely introduced to other tropical and subtropical regions worldwide due to its beautiful and showy flowers.

Plant Description:

1. Size: The African Tulip Tree is a large tree that can grow to heights of 15 to 25 meters (50 to 80 feet) tall, sometimes even taller under favorable conditions. Its canopy can spread out to be equally wide.

2. Leaves: The leaves of Spathodea campanulata are large, opposite, and pinnately compound. Each leaf typically consists of 5 to 9 leaflets arranged on a central stalk (rachis). The leaflets are ovate, glossy, and dark green, with serrated edges.

3. Flowers: The most distinctive feature of the African Tulip Tree is its vibrant and flamboyant flowers. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and clustered in terminal inflorescences. They can be 7 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches) long and come in various shades of red, orange, or yellow. The flowers have a bell-like appearance, which is why the tree is also called "Campanulata."

4. Fruits: After the flowering season, the tree produces long, cylindrical, woody capsules filled with numerous winged seeds. The capsules can reach lengths of about 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches). When the capsules split open, they release the seeds, which are dispersed by wind.

5. Bark: The bark of Spathodea campanulata is grayish-brown and becomes rougher and more fissured with age.