The flame of the
forest is a medium sized deciduous tree of the pea family that is native to
humid lowland forested areas of India and Sri Lanka. It typically matures to
30-40’ tall. This tree features: (a) leathery medium to dark green compound
trifoliate leaves (to 10-18” wide), each having three rhombus-shaped leaflets
held by a long petiole; (b) leaf drop occurring in early winter; (c) black
flower buds forming in mid-winter on leafless stems; (c) bicolor orange/red
flowers (each to 2” long) blooming in dense clusters (racemes to 6” long) from
late January to March; (d) flowers giving way to fruits (flat single-seeded
pods to 3-4” long) which emerge pale green but mature to bronze-brown. Flowers
often produce an outstanding late winter bloom. Each flower has 5 petals, two
wings and a beak-shaped keel purportedly resembling a curved parrot’s beak. Butea
seeds, leaves, gum, and flowers all have medicinal properties. Best grown in
sunny tropical locations. Best performance occurs in deep, fertile, organically
rich, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Add surface mulch. Needs
consistent moisture, but soils should begin to dry as winter approaches to
encourage leaf drop by the beginning of winter. Plants should be sited in areas
protected from strong winds. The common name is in reference to the orange and
red flower colors which purportedly mimic the colors of fire. Hardy in zones
10-12.
Growing
Instructions for the Flame of the Forest
The seeds need
to be planted when received or stored in a refrigerator until they are planted.
1. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting
soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 2. Put the soil in a pot. 3. Sow
the seeds on the soil. 4. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 5. Water
the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 6. Put the pots in an area in a warm,
sunny location. 7. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.
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The product is firmly packed.
Charles (verified owner) –
Awesome product and company
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Very well worth the money.
Nolan (verified owner) –
Easy to grow beautiful
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Good service.