Can I grow the Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' (Yellow African Tuliptree) in my garden? What climates does it thrive in?

The Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' is best suited for tropical and subtropical climates, where temperatures stay above freezing year-round. If you live in USDA zones 10-12 or similar warm areas, this fast-growing, large yellow African Tuliptree will thrive in your garden. If you’re in a cooler region, growing it in a large container that can be protected during cold snaps is also an option. Its brilliant yellow flowers and lush growth make it perfect for brightening up tropical landscapes!

How quickly does the 'Lutea' variety grow, and how big will it get in my landscape?

The 'Lutea' African Tuliptree is known for its rapid growth—expect it to reach 20-25 feet in just a few years under ideal conditions! Mature trees can eventually reach up to 40-60 feet tall with a broad, spreading canopy, providing excellent shade and visual impact. Its impressive size, along with the vibrant yellow flowers, makes it ideal as a focal point or shade tree in larger tropical gardens.

What kind of maintenance and care does the Yellow African Tuliptree require? Is it suitable for beginner gardeners?

The Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' is low-maintenance and easy to grow, even for beginners. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, water it regularly during the first year, and watch it flourish! Once established, the tree is relatively drought-tolerant. Occasionally prune for shape or to remove old branches. An added bonus: its bright yellow flowers attract birds and pollinators, boosting garden biodiversity. Just make sure your garden has space for this fast-growing beauty!

1 10

Bonte Farm

Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea': Fast-Growing, Large Yellow African Tuliptree for Tropical Gardens

$85.00 USD

Sale Sold out

Shipping calculated at checkout.

Size 2-gal 5-gal

☀️ Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea': Large, Brilliant Yellow African Tuliptree

The Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea', also known as the Yellow African Tuliptree, is a tropical delight. This tree is highly desired for its stunning appearance, fast growth, and vibrant yellow blooms. As a cultivar, it brings a lighter burst of color compared to the standard orange Spathodea, brightening landscapes with its vivid hues. With its lush leaves and spectacular floral clusters, Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' quickly becomes an impressive presence in tropical gardens and broad landscapes.

This tree forms a showy centerpiece due to its velvety, bronze-green buds and large, eye-catching flowers. The Spathodea is also known as the Fountain Tree or Squirt Tree, since its flower buds retain water. The 'Lutea' variety stands out with rapid establishment, creating a mature, beautiful shade tree in only a few short seasons. Many gardeners choose the Yellow African Tuliptree to fill large spaces, as its lush canopy brings a cool tropical feeling and attracts garden pollinators.

Botanical Characteristics of Spathodea 'Lutea'

Characteristic	Detail
Scientific Name	Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' (Bignoniaceae family)
Common Names	Yellow African Tuliptree, Fountain Tree, Squirt Tree
Growth Habit	A large, upright, semi-evergreen to evergreen tree with a broad canopy. It features a famously rapid growth rate and rounded, lush structure.
Foliage	Big, dark green, and glossy pinnately compound leaves cast deep shade beneath the canopy.
Flowers	Massive, terminal racemes (clusters) of trumpet-shaped, brilliant yellow flowers. Blooms often measure four to six inches long and shine with golden edges.
Flowering Season	This tree can flower all year in ideal tropical climates. Its most showy season occurs during the dry months of winter and spring.
Unique Feature	The curved, velvety flower buds store clear water, contributing to the 'Fountain Tree' name.

Mature Size and Landscape Impact

As a mature specimen, the Yellow African Tuliptree needs substantial room to stretch its roots and canopy. The Spathodea ‘Lutea’ is well suited for large yards, parks, and open commercial landscapes.

Height: Typically reaches 30–50 feet (9–15 m) tall, though urban specimens may be smaller.
Spread: Its broad canopy expands 20–40 feet (6–12 m), providing deep shade and an impressive silhouette.
This architectural tree thrives where its roots are unrestricted, rewarding you with fast, lush coverage and a memorable floral display.

USDA Hardiness Zone and Climate Requirements

The Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' strictly favors warm climates and cannot tolerate frost. Grown in USDA zones 10–11, it excels in humid, tropical, and subtropical areas.

This ornamental tree is perfect for gardens where winter temperatures stay above freezing.
Sustained cold below 35°F can lead to stress, leaf drop, or severe harm, requiring protection in borderline climates.

Cultivation and Care Tips for Spathodea

Aspect	Care Instructions
Sunlight	Plant in full sun. At least six hours of direct sunlight ensure strong growth and bountiful blooms.
Soil	Use fertile, rich, and well-drained soil. Avoid planting in spots that become waterlogged.
Water	Water deeply and regularly until established. Mature trees tolerate drought but bloom best with extra irrigation during dry spells.
Fertilizer	Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the active growing period. This helps support fast growth and heavy flowering.
Pruning	Prune while young to shape a strong trunk. Annual pruning after flowering helps control size and maintain form.

Landscape Use and Wildlife Appeal

Specimen Tree: Plant as a vivid focal point. Its size and blooms make it a memorable landmark in lawns and courtyards.
Shade Tree: The dense, broad canopy provides quick, generous protection from the sun over patios and open landscapes.
Avenue Planting: Line wide streets or resort drives with multiple trees to create a colorful and uniform display.
Tropical Garden: The lush, dramatic structure makes it a key component in jungle-themed or ornamental gardens.

Pest and Disease Resistance

Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' is considered robust and low-maintenance in suitable climates. Few pests trouble this tree seriously. Occasional issues like aphids or mealybugs rarely cause damage and are manageable with basic care.

The most significant challenge to Spathodea is cold damage. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 35°F stresses the plant and may result in leaf loss or branch dieback.

Propagation and Related Spathodea Keywords

Propagation is possible by seed or vegetative methods. To ensure exact yellow flower color and growth type, use semi-hardwood or root cuttings for true-to-type trees. The vigorous nature and ornamental value make Spathodea campanulata 'Lutea' a perfect candidate for propagation, ensuring you can sustain its legacy in landscapes and collections.