Hildegardia barteri is a commanding tropical tree that reaches 80 to 100 feet tall, native to the dry forests of western Africa. It earns its place in Zone 12 gardens with dramatic bright orange-red flowers that emerge in terminal clusters during the dry season, before the tree leafs out again. The large, heart-shaped leaves can stretch 8 inches long, and smooth grey-green bark with distinctive buttresses gives mature specimens architectural presence. This fast-growing deciduous tree also produces edible seeds within papery samaras, adding functional interest to its ornamental appeal.
Full Sun
Moderate
12-12
1200in H x 840in W
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Moderate
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Bright orange-red tubular flowers that bloom before new leaves emerge create an unmissable dry-season display, while the tree's impressive scale and buttressed trunk give it genuine forest presence. Fast growth means you won't wait decades to see the full drama unfold. In the tropics, this is a statement tree that combines showy, season-marking blooms with edible fruit and architectural branching structure.
As a flowering tree in tropical landscapes, Hildegardia barteri serves as both a striking ornamental specimen and a source of edible seeds. The seeds develop within the papery samaras that follow the flowers, offering dual-purpose appeal for gardeners seeking trees that deliver visual drama and a functional harvest.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Harvest the papery samaras after they mature and develop a tan or brown color, typically following the flowering period. Seeds can be collected and extracted from the samaras for use or storage.
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“Hildegardia barteri originates from the dry tropical forests of western Africa, where it evolved to thrive in seasonal climates with distinct wet and dormant dry periods. This species has been documented and cultivated within its native range for generations, valued for both its ornamental qualities and the seeds it produces. Its introduction to global horticulture represents the growing appreciation for African forest species in tropical and subtropical gardens.”