Peltophorum africanum is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to tropical and southern Africa, characterized by bright yellow flowers and feathery bipinnate leaves. The species has a hard seedcoat requiring pre-treatment for optimal germination rates.
Before sowing
Scarification
agua_quente Pour nearly boiling water on seeds or briefly immerse in boiling water, soak 12-24 hours in warm water. Alternative: mechanical scarification by nicking seedcoat.
Soak
24 h Soak in warm water after hot water treatment for 12-24 hours until seeds swell and imbibe moisture
Hard seedcoat requires scarification to speed germination. Fresh seeds benefit most from treatment.
Sowing
Substrate
Well-draining loam soil, river sand and compost mixture (5:1), peat and perlite mix
Depth
1cm
Temperature
22°C
Moisture
media
Container
Seedling trays, black nursery bags
What to expect
Step 1
Pre-treat the seed
Step 2
Sow at 1cm · 22°C
Day 3–10
Seedlings emerge (~75%)
Tips
Germination typically occurs within 1-3 weeks. Seedlings need frost protection for first 2-3 years. Plant in bright, direct sunlight. Tree becomes drought-tolerant once established.
Sources: Agroforestry Database, Useful Tropical Plants Database, PlantZAfrica, World Agroforestry Centre, Botanical research on Peltophorum africanum germination
