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Description
Callaeum Macropterum, commonly known as the Yellow Flame Tree, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America and is widely cultivated for its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The tree grows up to 30 feet tall and has a spreading crown. Its leaves are compound and glossy, with 4-8 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are tubular and have four petals, measuring about 2 inches in length. Its fruit is a flattened pod that measures about 4 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Callaeum |
Appearance
The Yellow Flame Tree has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. The tree has a smooth, gray-brown bark, and its branches are slender and slightly drooping. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, measuring about 4-8 inches long. The tree produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract a variety of pollinators. The fruit of the Yellow Flame Tree is a flat pod that is green when young and turns brown as it matures.
Care Guide
To keep your Yellow Flame Tree healthy and thriving, it is essential to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips:
Water: The Yellow Flame Tree requires moderate watering. Water it deeply once a week and let the soil dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The Yellow Flame Tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The Yellow Flame Tree can grow in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Flame Tree is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet, or if it is grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
The Yellow Flame Tree is native to South America and is commonly found in Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. It grows in tropical rainforests and prefers moist, well-draining soil. The tree can also tolerate dry conditions and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Yellow Flame Tree a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the Yellow Flame Tree is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 feet per year.
Q: Can I grow the Yellow Flame Tree in a container?
A: Yes, the Yellow Flame Tree can be grown in a container. However, it will require regular pruning to keep its size manageable.
Q: Does the Yellow Flame Tree attract bees?
A: Yes, the Yellow Flame Tree attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its sweet fragrance.
Q: Can I propagate the Yellow Flame Tree from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Yellow Flame Tree can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to the Yellow Flame Tree:
- Calliandra Haematocephala
- Caesalpinia Pulcherrima
- Cassia Fistula
- Delonix Regia
References
- “Callaeum Macropterum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283930.
- “Yellow Flame Tree.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st299.
- “Callaeum Macropterum.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/113528/.
