Butea monosperma (Flame of the Forest)

Noted for its magnificent floral display, Butea monosperma (Flame of the Forest) is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with a rounded canopy of leathery, dark green, compound trifoliate leaves, 10-18 in. long (25-45 cm). From late winter to early spring, it is covered with a profusion of brilliant red-orange flowers, up to 2 in. long (5 cm). Borne in large clusters near the tips of the branches, the blossoms give way to flat single-seeded pods, 4 in. long (10 cm), that mature to bronze-brown. Worshipped as sacred by the Hindus, it is widely cultivated in southern Asia. Prized for its profusion of bright flowers, it is also grown as an ornamental elsewhere. Slow-growing, Butea monosperma makes a striking specimen tree.

• Grows up to 30-40 ft. tall and wide (9-12 m).
• Easily grown in deep, fertile, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Best with consistent moisture except in winter. Protect from strong winds.
• Great as a specimen plant in Mediterranean gardens.
• Virtually disease free and pest free.
• Propagate by seed (germination starts in about 10-12 days and is completed in 4 weeks) or root suckers.
• Native to India, Burma.