Contents
Description
Koelreuteria Bipinnata, commonly known as the Chinese flame tree or Bougainvillea goldenraintree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Taiwan but has been widely cultivated around the world for ornamental purposes. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of around 20 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Koelreuteria |
Appearance
The Chinese flame tree has a rounded crown and a trunk that can be up to 1 foot in diameter. The leaves are bipinnately compound and can be up to 18 inches long. They have a bright green color in the summer and turn yellow in the fall. The tree also produces large clusters of yellow flowers in the summer, followed by papery fruits that turn pinkish-brown when mature.
Care Guide
Water: Koelreuteria Bipinnata prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs.
Soil: The tree prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.
Sunlight: The Chinese flame tree prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Koelreuteria Bipinnata is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese flame tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be affected by root rot if it is planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The Chinese flame tree is native to China, Korea, and Taiwan and is commonly planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks around the world. It prefers a warm and humid climate and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Koelreuteria Bipinnata a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Koelreuteria Bipinnata is a relatively fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 feet per year under ideal growing conditions.
Q: When does the Chinese flame tree produce flowers?
A: The Chinese flame tree produces large clusters of yellow flowers in the summer, usually from June to August.
Q: Can Koelreuteria Bipinnata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Koelreuteria Bipinnata can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How can I propagate the Chinese flame tree?
A: Koelreuteria Bipinnata can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Softwood cuttings taken in the summer have the best chance of rooting.
Related Plants
- Koelreuteria elegans
- Koelreuteria paniculata
- Koelreuteria integrifoliola
- Koelreuteria bipinnata ‘Fastigiata’
References
- “Koelreuteria bipinnata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277249&isprofile=0&basic=koelreuteria.
- “Koelreuteria bipinnata.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/63420/.
- “Chinese Flame Tree.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/chinese-flame-tree-4125761.
