African Tulip Tree

African tulip tree is a large, upright tropical evergreen with glossy, pinnately compound leaves and clusters of bell-shaped flowers in warm orange and yellow tones. It grows quickly and develops a broad, spreading crown; its natural range is tropical Africa. [University of Florida IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST600) and [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:110661-1/general-information). ## Garden Use Use it as a specimen, shade or framing tree in a large, open, frost-free landscape. UF/IFAS reports mature heights of 50–60 feet and spreads of 35–50 feet, and lists USDA zones 10B–11. Flowering is strongest from late winter into spring, though blooms may occur year-round. Glossy evergreen foliage provides structure between flowering periods. ## Maintenance Water regularly until established; established trees need little routine care. The wood is soft and brittle, so plant in a sheltered place or where falling branches will not cause damage. Prune early to build strong branch structure and periodically remove poorly attached or competing limbs.