Do you know the Tulip tree from Gabon? This is a perfect tree for medium to large gardens, where it can grow and develop freely. It is, in effect, a plant from which we can protect ourselves from the sun under the shade of its leaves, which will remain in it throughout the year.
Let us know how to take care of it.
The tulip tree of Gabon, scientifically known by the name of Spathodea campanulatais a fast growing evergreen tree with a height of about 20mand a crown diameter of between 3 and 4m. It belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, hence its foliage is reminiscent of those of these splendid climbing plants. Its red flowers can appear in spring or summer, depending on the sunshine (the higher it is, the more likely it is to bloom). The wood of its trunk is soft wood, so much so that birds love to use it to build their nests.
This is a species native to tropical Africa, although it is currently cultivated throughout the tropics and subtropics of the world. In gardens it will look spectacular as an isolated specimen or in alignments, leaving a minimum distance of 3m between one plant and another.
In cultivation we find a very grateful tree, as long as we have it in a frost-free climate, or they are very mild (down to -1ºC) and of very short duration otherwise it could be damaged important. It must also be borne in mind that it will only grow on land where there is a lot of organic matter, and little lime. Thus, it should be planted in full sun exposure, and in fertile soils. It is not necessary to pay, but if the soil you have is calcareous, provides iron chelates once every 15 days to prevent you from getting chlorosis.
Finally, you should know that the Spathodea campanulata It is considered an invasive plant, so if you live in a warm, mild climate, it is important that, if you want to have this tree in your garden, contact the Department of the Environment first of your locality for advice.
It’s beautiful right?
