Firmiana colorata
Indian parasol tree
Description
Source: wikipedia (CC BY-SA)Firmiana colorata, the scarlet sterculia, is a medium-sized tree with spreading branches. It sheds leaves before the onset of flowering. After leaf-shedding, buds sprout and develop into flowers. The tree flowers from March to April.
Care Guide
💧 Water
The scarlet sterculia thrives in humid climates where moisture is effectively retained. It prefers consistent hydration and typically needs to be watered twice a week. Its growth is influenced by rainfall patterns, as it responds to seasonal wet and dry conditions. Additionally, it demonstrates moderate drought tolerance.
☀️ Light Full sun
Scarlet sterculia is native to open habitats, like sunny meadows and forest edges, which offer plenty of light. It grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial sun, adapting to a range of sunlight exposures.
What are the sunlight requirements for Scarlet sterculia (Firmiana colorata)?
Scarlet sterculia, also known by its botanical name Firmiana colorata, thrives in various sunlight conditions. For optimal growth, it requires 'Full sun' which means the plant should receive above 6 hours of sunlight daily. However, it can also tolerate 'Partial sun' conditions, needing about 3-6 hours of sunlight. When planning where to place your Scarlet sterculia in the garden, it's important to observe the movement of sunlight throughout the day. Choosing a spot that provides a perfect balance of light and shade is crucial for the happiness and health of your plant.
🌡️ Temperature 20–35°C
Scarlet sterculia is native to temperate regions and performs best at temperatures of 68 to 95°F (20 to 35°C). Environmental adjustments are only required if temperatures fall outside that range.
What is the botanical name of Scarlet Sterculia?
The botanical name of Scarlet Sterculia is Firmiana colorata.
What are the ideal temperature conditions for growing Scarlet Sterculia?
Scarlet Sterculia thrives best in temperate locations, with ideal temperature conditions ranging from 68 to 95°F (20 to 35°C). Adjustments to the plant’s environment are recommended if temperatures fall outside this range to ensure optimal growth.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Scarlet sterculia is in early spring as it comes out of dormancy. This encourages overall growth and the development of flowers. Fertilizing improves the foliage, stems, and branches and supports the production of large, vivid, and long-lasting blooms. It helps move nutrients from the roots to the flowers and enhances the plant's health and resistance to disease.
🪴 Pot & Repot Every 3 years
✂️ Pruning
The Scarlet Sterculia is known for its vibrant red flowers. To keep the plant healthy, prune it in early spring by removing dead branches and thinning out excessive growth to improve air circulation. This helps prevent overcrowding, promotes a strong structure, and encourages healthy flowering. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools to minimize stress on the plant and reduce the risk of disease.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Firmiana
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10
- Mature Height
- 14.94 m
- Mature Spread
- 7.92 m to 11.89 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Red
- Flower Size
- 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Nepal, Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Laos, Thailand, China