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Butea Monosperma

Flame of the Forest

Description

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Butea Monosperma tree description

Butea monosperma (Flame of the forest) is a medium-sized deciduous tree growing to a maximum of 45 feet (13.72 m) tall. The Flame of the forest tree has a crooked, twisted trunk and irregular branches with rough gray bark. The crown is irregular but rounded. Also, its thick, velvety, pale green leaves have three leaflets (trifoliate). The leaflets are 4 to 8 inches (20.32 cm) wide. Finally, the vivid bright orange-red flowers are borne in clusters about 6 inches (15.24 cm) long with blooms about 1 inch (2.54 cm) long. The gorgeous flowers attract birds and insects.

Flame of the forest – flowering tree

Flowering occurs after the leaves have been shed in the dry season providing a spectacular show. Fruit pods have a fine hairy surface, first green, then becoming yellow brown when ripe. Also, the pods measure 6 to 8 inches (20.32 cm) long, containing flat brown seeds, used for propagation.

The tree has a long history of use in Asia, providing timber, fuel, resin, fodder, medicines and dye. Butea monosperma tree (Flame of the forest) will grow in a variety of soil types, from dry to saline to waterlogged. This is one of the exceptional flowering trees, it is ideal as a specimen or accent in a garden, in large planters or public open spaces.

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Additional information

Gallons

25 gal., 45 gal., 100 gal., 200 gal., 300 gal.

Florida Native

No, Not FL Native

Origin

India, Myanmar & Sri Lanka

Flowering Season

Spring

Drought Tolerance

Moderate Drought Tolerance

Light Requirements

Full Sun

Salt Tolerance

Low Salt Tolerance

Flower Color

Red

Shape

Wide Canopy

Plant Type

Deciduous, Flowering

Common Name

Flame of the Forest