Radermachera sinica

Radermachera sinica, also called china doll,[2] serpent tree or emerald tree,[3] 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 white, trumpet-like, about 7 cm long, and resembling a large Bignonia flower in shape. The flowers are night-blooming and only last for one night, wilting in the morning sun. The blooms appear spring to early summer, and are highly fragrant.

Radermachera sinica
Flowers
Seed pods
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae
Genus: Radermachera
Species:
R. sinica
Binomial name
Radermachera sinica
(Hance) Hemsl.
Synonyms[1]
  • Radermachera borii C.E.C Fisch.
  • Radermachera tonkinensis Dop
  • Stereospermum sinicum Hance

Recent dwarf variations have been released, often referred to as the Asian Bell Tree. Foliage is highly attractive, and is glossy, dark green and 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. It should be planted in rich, well drained soil in full sun to part shade and protect from drying winds and frost.

The specific name sinica means "from China".

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. As with most houseplants, wilted leaves indicate either lack of water or overwatering.

This plant can be grown outdoors, and favours subtropical and Mediterranean climates. It usually cannot tolerate frost and temperatures below freezing, although it may under certain conditions.

See also

References
  1. The Plant List: A Working List of All Plant Species, retrieved 11 September 2016
  2. "Radermachera sinica". Natural Resources Conservation Service PLANTS Database. USDA. Retrieved 16 October 2015.
  3. China Doll Plant (Radermachera Sinica) Growing Guide, on: epicgardenin.com, Last updated May 20, 2019
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