African tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata)

Spathodea campanulata, the African tulip tree, is a fast-growing tree with huge, scarlet-orange, cup-shaped flowers planted along Indian roads and in parks. Its curved flower buds hold water and squirt when pressed, a game children know well. In Hawaii and many Pacific islands it has become one of the worst invasive trees.

Botanical name: Spathodea campanulata P.Beauv.
Family: Bignoniaceae
Tamil: African tulip
Hindi: Rugtoora
Parts used: Flowers (avenue)
Habit: Orange spathe tree; konrai is a shop word
Last updated: 2026-10-25

How to recognise African tulip tree

It is a tall, upright tree with large, pinnate leaves of glossy, oval leaflets.

Flowers are big, bell-shaped and fiery orange-red with a yellow rim, in dense clusters at the top of the crown.

The flower buds are curved and banana-shaped, filled with water. That is why it is also called the fountain tree.

In the humid south it flowers for much of the year, most heavily in the dry season.

The fruit is a long, boat-shaped woody pod that splits to release hundreds of papery winged seeds.

Traditional use of African tulip tree

Planting

It is planted as an ornamental and shade tree in South Indian cities such as Bengaluru, and in Kerala and the north-east.

Indian urban planting

Modern notes on African tulip tree

Ecologists list it among the world’s worst invasive species in Pacific islands, where it forms dense forests and shades out native trees.

Studies report that its nectar can be harmful to some native bees, a further concern where it is invasive.

African tulip tree safety

There is no food use. Its brittle branches can break in storms.

Ecology and sourcing

It is native to tropical Africa and has been planted throughout the tropics.

Its light winged seeds spread far on the wind. In wet regions of India it should be planted with care near forests.

Related plants

Also in Bignoniaceae

Questions about African tulip tree

Is African tulip tree a tulip?

No. Tulips are bulbs in the lily family. This is a tree in the jacaranda family.

Why do the buds squirt?

They are filled with water.

Is African tulip tree invasive in India?

It is naturalised in some wet areas. It is a serious invader elsewhere.

Where is African tulip tree planted in India?

Mainly in the wetter south and north-east, along roads and in parks.

Sources

Educational page about a plant. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell. Traditional use is historical. If you need care, ask a licensed clinician. Questions: hello@meevamed.com.