Australian Flame Tree @Loyang Lane (2022 0209)
Regions on the East Coast
of Australia
Location: Simei Road near
the Tunnel at Tampines Street 31 above PIE
Along Jurong West
Street 93
Similarly to its
kurrajong relatives the leaves are variable, with up to 7 deep lobes. It is
deciduous - shedding its leaves after the dry season. The spectacular flowering
occurs in late spring and new foliage is ready for the summer rains. In areas
where the winter is not particularly dry, this natural rhythm may become
somewhat erratic and the tree may flower only partially.
Flowers are scarlet bells with 5 partially fused petals. The pod-like fruits (technically known as follicles) are dark brown, wide, boat-shaped and about 10 cm long. They contain masses of thin bristles that stick in the skin of humans, as well as yellow seeds. These are nutritious and are traditionally eaten by Aborigines after toasting.
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