Brownea grandiceps Jacq.


Family: LEGUMINOSAE
Sub-Family: Caesalpinioideae
English Name: Rose of the Jungle
Synonym: Hermesias grandiceps Kuntze
Common Name: Rose of Venezuela, scarlet flame bean
Flowering & Fruiting Period: Throughout the year
Distribution: Native of South America
Habitat: Grown as garden plant
Uses: Ornamental. The wood is light, soft and not durable. Seldom used, but suitable for light boxes, toys and linings.
Key Characteristics: Brownea grandiceps is an evergreen tree with a low, dense crown; it can grow 6 - 8 metres tall. The short, straight bole can be 20 - 30cm in diameter. The tree has very little practical application, though the wood can be used for low quality items. It is very ornamental tree, especially when in bloom, and can be grown in gardens. Considered by some to be the most beautiful flowering tree in the Americas.