Description
Sterculia abbreviata (also called Short-leaved Sterculia, among many other common names) is a small to medium-sized tree, up to 15 m tall, with a spreading crown and a short bole. It is native to tropical Africa, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Islands. It grows in moist, evergreen forests, often near streams and in ravines.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower: White, bell-shaped flowers with five petals. Seed: Small, black seeds. Seedlings: Produce a rosette of leaves with a central stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Sterculia abbreviata is a hardy perennial that is easy to propagate from seed or cuttings. It prefers a well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seed should be sown in spring or early summer in a well-drained soil mix. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a moist, well-drained soil mix.