Radermachera sinica
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| Radermachera sinica | ||||||||||||||
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| Radermachera sinica (Hance) Hemsl. |
Radermachera sinica (also called "China Doll" or "Serpent Tree") is an evergreen tree in the family Bignoniaceae, native to the subtropical mountain regions of southern China and Taiwan. It can reach heights of up to 30 m tall and a trunk diameter of 1 m. The leaves are bipinnate, 20 to 70 cm long and 15 to 25 cm broad, divided into numerous small glossy green leaflets 2 to 4 cm long. The flowers are yellow, bell-shaped, about 7 cm long, resembling a large Catalpa flower.
Recent Dwarf variations have been released, often referred to as the Asian Bell Tree. Foliage is highly attractive glossy, dark green & lacy. Consistently grows to maximum 3m and so makes a very popular indoor or patio plant, requiring a position with indirect sun light. Can be grown outdoors in tropical to subtropical regions. Plant in rich, well drained soil in full sun to part shade. Protect from drying winds, keep moist in dry weather. Feed with slow release fertiliser twice a year. Use premium potting mix if planting in containers. It cannot withstand any frost so unless you have a frost free, very mild garden, like certain parts of Torquay, treat as a houseplant only.
The specific name sinica means "from China". They are available from Hill House nursery.
[edit] Cultivation
Radermachera sinica is often sold as a small houseplant, grown for its attractive glossy leaves; it does not normally flower indoors. It requires plenty of light and moisture in order to thrive. Like most houseplants, yellow leaves indicate either lack of water or overwatering.
This plant can be grown outdoors in favourable climates like subtropical regions, the mediterranean coastline or certain parts of Torquay.
