Mexican-hat-plant (Chiranthodendron pentadactylon)

Also known as: Mexican hand tree, Hand-flower

The "Mexican Hand Tree" (Chiranthodendron pentadactylon), also known as the "Devil's Hand Tree," is renowned for its unusual flowers that resemble a red hand emerging from the plant. In its native regions of Guatemala and Mexico, it is referred to as árbol de la manita, meaning 'the little hand tree.' This tree has been the emblem of the Botanical Society of Mexico since the 1940s.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Mexican-hat-plant

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

11 m to 28 m

Spread

9 m to 12 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

7-10 centimeters

Flower Color

Red

Images of Mexican-hat-plant

Quickly Identify Mexican-hat-plant

Evergreen tree reaching 50+ feet (15+ meters) in height.

Leaves with shallow lobes and fuzzy brown undercoat.

Distinctive red claw-like flowers with long stamens (2 inches/5 cm).

Woody fruits split into five lobes, 5 inches (13 cm) long.

Scientific Classification of Mexican-hat-plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

Family

Mallow

Genus

Chiranthodendron

Species

Mexican-hat-plant

Planting and Growing of Mexican-hat-plant

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Mexican-hat-plant?

Chiranthodendron pentadactylon, known for its vibrant red flowers, prefers a consistent yet moderate watering routine. When watering, aim to moisten the top 1-2 inches of soil. This amounts to roughly 500 ml of water per session, ensuring the moisture reaches the roots but does not cause waterlogging. The plant thrives best when its soil is kept slightly moist but never soggy.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Mexican-hat-plant? ›

What should I do if my Mexican-hat-plant is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Mexican-hat-plant? ›

How to save an overwatered Mexican-hat-plant? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mexican-hat-plant?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

The ideal light range for Chiranthodendron pentadactylon is full sun to partial sun, providing balanced exposure that enhances leaf color and promotes robust growth.

What type of sunlight does it prefer? ›

What is the best way to provide ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting bring? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mexican-hat-plant?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

Chiranthodendron pentadactylon thrives in a warm temperature range between 65°F to 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth, leaf development, and flowering. Maintaining this temperature helps the plant's metabolic processes function efficiently, ensuring vibrant growth and robust health.

What Soil is Best for Mexican-hat-plant?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Chiranthodendron pentadactylon thrives best in well-drained soil, which ensures that excess water does not accumulate around the roots. Proper drainage minimizes the risk of root rot and other diseases, promoting healthy growth and robust blooming. The plant benefits greatly from soil rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-decomposed leaves. Organic matter provides essential nutrients and improves soil structure, enhancing moisture retention and boosting microbial activity, which are vital for plant health. While not overly demanding, Chiranthodendron pentadactylon prefers moderately fertile soil to support its nutritional needs. Regular but balanced fertilization helps maintain vigorous growth and vibrant blossom production, providing long-lasting ornamental appeal.

How to Fertilize Mexican-hat-plant?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Chiranthodendron pentadactylon, apply liquid fertilizer at a concentration of 1/2 the recommended strength by the manufacturer. This ensures that the plant receives the necessary nutrients without the risk of over-fertilization.

How to Prune Mexican-hat-plant?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Carefully inspect the tree and cut back any dead or diseased branches. This opens up the canopy for better air circulation and light penetration, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases and encourages stronger growth. Shape the canopy by cutting back overgrown branches to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing structure. Aim for a natural look while ensuring that branches do not cross and interfere with one another. Make cuts at a slight angle, just above a bud facing outward. This technique encourages the growth of new branches in the desired direction and supports a balanced growth habit. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Mexican-hat-plant plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Harvest seeds from mature Chiranthodendron pentadactylon pods. Ensure seeds are fully matured and dry before collection, as immature seeds have low germination rates.

Harvest semi-hardwood cuttings from the plant during the growing season. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and free from any disease or pest damage.

For seed propagation, plant seeds in seed trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Cover lightly with soil and water gently. For cuttings, dip in rooting hormone and place in a moist medium.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Mexican-hat-plant plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs such as root-bound conditions where roots start emerging from drainage holes or the plant is top-heavy with insufficient growth. These indicate it's time to refresh the space and allow your Chiranthodendron pentadactylon room to thrive.

Select a pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This ensures that the plant has ample space for root expansion, promoting healthier growth without overwhelming it with too much soil that may retain excess moisture.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil to prevent root rot and enhance aeration. This type of soil offers the perfect balance of nutrient retention and drainage, ensuring your plant receives sufficient nourishment without sitting in water.