TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA

Firmiana colorata, Sterculia colorata, Colored Sterculia, Bonfire tree, Scarlet Sterculia, Iwil-iwil, Indian Almond

Firmiana colorata, Sterculia colorata

Colored Sterculia, Bonfire tree, Scarlet Sterculia, Iwil-iwil, Indian Almond
Family: Malvaceae
Subfamily: Sterculioideae
Origin: India, Thailand
USDA Zone: 10?
USDA Plant Hardiness MapPlant with caudexPlant used for bonsaiSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunModerate waterRegular waterRed, crimson, vinous flowersPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsDeciduous plant
Firmiana colorata, or Scarlet Sterculia, is a deciduous, small to medium-sized tree native to India and Thailand. It prefers organically-rich, sandy soil with plenty of moisture. This tree produces red flowers that hang down from the ends of its branches in short and dense panicles. The flowers are covered in a fine, downy hair, giving them a soft, velvety look. During its flowering period, Firmiana colorata presents a spectacular sight with its orange-red flowers against its leafless state.

Growing between 10-20 feet tall, its hardy to zone 10. This tree requires full sun and organically-rich, sandy loam soil with plenty of moisture, yet it does not handle overwatering well.

When in bloom, Firmiana colorata produces red and crimson flowers with a glossy, vinous hue. These flowers hang down from the ends of the tree's branches in short, dense panicles. They are covered in a fine downy hair, giving them a soft, velvety look. This flower is especially attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardeners.

Young trees are often grown from a bulb or caudex and can even be grown as a bonsai plant. When planted in the ground, this tree grows into a large tree. During winter it often loses its leaves, and goes dormant. When flowering, it can be a stunning sight with its orange-red flowers against its bare branches.

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Firmiana colorata, Sterculia colorata, Colored Sterculia, Bonfire tree, Scarlet Sterculia, Iwil-iwil, Indian Almond


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/firmiana_colorata.htm