African tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata)

Also known as: Fountain tree, Flame of the forest, Nile flame, Tulip tree, Flame Tree of Thika

The African tulip tree (*Spathodea campanulata*) is an evergreen species that flourishes in full sun and prefers well-drained soils, although it can manage in various soil conditions. It is a fast-growing tree, often reaching heights between 7 and 25 meters (23-82 feet). While it can tolerate some shade, it thrives best with ample sunlight. Known for its prolific seed production, the tree's seeds can germinate even in low-light conditions, which contributes to its invasive potential in some regions. The tree's vibrant orange-red, tulip-shaped flowers and lush, dark green leaves make it a popular choice for ornamental planting. Regular watering is advantageous, particularly during dry spells, but the tree can endure brief droughts once established.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of African tulip tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

7 m to 25 m

Spread

11 m to 15 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

5 cm to 6 cm

Flower Color

Red Orange

Images of African tulip tree

Quickly Identify African tulip tree

Pinnately compound leaves with bronze hue maturing to dark green.

Clusters of tulip-shaped orange-red flowers, 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide by 5 inches (13 cm) deep.

Scientific Classification of African tulip tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Bignonia

Genus

Spathodea

Species

African tulip tree

Planting and Growing of African tulip tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

75-85℉

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

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water African tulip tree?

Spathodea campanulata, commonly known as the African Tulip Tree, requires watering where the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be thorough, allowing water to penetrate deep into the root zone. The goal is to ensure that the soil is moist about 3 inches below the surface. Excessive water must drain away completely to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered African tulip tree? ›

What should I do if my African tulip tree is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered African tulip tree? ›

How to save an overwatered African tulip tree? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for African tulip tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours of sunlight

Spathodea campanulata thrives best in full sun to partial sunlight conditions, with at least 6-8 hours. Ideal light exposure promotes vibrant flowering and robust growth, optimizing both leaf and flower development.

What are the ideal light conditions for Spathodea campanulata? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting conditions for Spathodea campanulata? ›

What are the benefits if Spathodea campanulata gets ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for African tulip tree?

Ideal Temperature: 75 ~ 85℉

The African Tulip Tree thrives best in warm environments where temperatures are consistently between 75°F and 85°F. This range supports optimal growth, flowering, and overall health of the plant. The tree's natural habitat mirrors these conditions, ensuring robust development and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for African tulip tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Spathodea campanulata thrives in well-draining loam and sandy loam soils, allowing excess water to flow away. This prevents root rot and helps the plant uptake essential nutrients effectively. The plant prospers in nutrient-rich soils that provide an ample supply of organic matter. This abundance aids vigorous growth, lush foliage, and vibrant flowering. Maintaining a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is crucial for nutrient availability. This pH range ensures optimal absorption, notably of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, critical for healthy development. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize African tulip tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Spathodea campanulata, the amount of fertilizer should be moderate. Recommended liquid fertilizer: 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Apply enough to moisten the soil without leaving excess on the surface. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune African tulip tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Begin by assessing the overall shape and size of your Spathodea campanulata. Identify any branches that disrupt its natural form or are growing disproportionately. This assessment is crucial for ensuring the tree maintains not just an aesthetic appeal, but also a balance that will support its health and growth. Carefully inspect the tree and remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts, which will minimize stress on the tree and reduce the risk of infection. Thinning out crowded areas allows light and air to penetrate through the canopy. Identify branches that are competing for space and selectively remove some of these to improve overall air circulation and sunlight exposure. Shape the tree by trimming back overgrown branches. Aim to maintain a balanced canopy and ensure that the tree stays manageable in size. Avoid excessive cutting; instead, focus on gradual shaping over multiple pruning sessions. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate African tulip tree plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Early summer

Gather mature seeds from the pods of an existing Spathodea campanulata tree. Make sure that the pods have dried and browned naturally, which usually indicates readiness for collection.

Use a well-draining soil mixture to fill seed trays. A mixture of sand, peat, and perlite is ideal due to its excellent drainage capabilities, which helps prevent root rot in young seedlings.

Select semi-hardwood cuttings from the plant, remove any leaves from the lower half, and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone before planting them in the soil. This step supports quicker root growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot African tulip tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 to 3 years

Spathodea campanulata should be repotted when its roots begin to outgrow the current pot, or you notice water sitting on the surface too long, a sign of compacted soil. Also, if growth appears stunted, it could be time to consider repotting.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to allow root growth. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil. Using a terracotta pot can help wick moisture away, reducing the risk of root rot.

Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging, often fatal for the roots. Incorporating perlite or sand can enhance drainage. A well-aerated soil promotes healthier root development and more robust growth.