Spathodea campanulata (African tulip tree) is a fast-growing tropical tree native to West Africa, known for striking orange-red campanulate flowers. Seed germination is variable and faces challenges with dormancy and short seed viability, but can achieve reasonable success with proper treatment.
Before sowing
No pretreatment required; seeds have short viability period so use fresh seeds
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Keep soil constantly moist; use bright location without direct sunlight; transplant seedlings at 25 days; seeds maintain viability for only 1 year; higher germination rates (80%) achievable in optimal tropical wet conditions; seeds are lightweight and wind-dispersed
Sources: Tanzania Tree Seed Agency, Seed Standardization Reports, Plantiary, Propagate.one, Onszaden, IUCN Global Invasive Species Database, Missouri Botanical Garden
