Colvillea racemosa – Colville’s Glory

Description

Colvillea racemosa – Colville’s Glory

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 5 seeds

Description

Native to Madagascar, Colvillea racemosa is a magnificent tropical tree recognised by its huge clusters of bright orange to orange-red flowers. Its finely divided, fern-like foliage creates a delicate canopy beneath the dramatic flowering heads.

Colville’s Glory is best suited to large, warm-climate gardens and collections where it can develop its natural height and wide crown. Its distinctive flowers make it a memorable specimen tree.

Key Features

• Flowers: Dense showy heads of orange-red blooms in large clusters.
• Leaves: Attractive, finely divided, feathery foliage.
• Habit: Tall tropical tree with a broad spreading canopy at maturity.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun in a sheltered, warm position.
• Soil: Deep, free-draining soil with room for a large root system.
• Climate: Tropical or frost-free subtropical locations; protect seedlings from cold.
• Care: Water during establishment and plant well away from buildings and confined spaces.

Propagation from Seed

1. Prepare: Lightly scratch or nick the seed coat if firm, then soak in lukewarm water overnight.
2. Sow: Plant around 10–15 mm deep in clean, well-drained propagation mix.
3. Germinate: Provide steady warmth, light moisture and good airflow; never leave trays waterlogged.
4. Pot on: Move seedlings into deep containers as roots establish, gradually introducing stronger light.

Growing Note

A large tree at maturity; choose a site with ample overhead and root space.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.