Seed Availability

Seeds are not available for the Mexican Hand Tree. Please visit our seed store to view current selections. Seeds were last available in March 2014.

Description

A fairly fast-growing medium or large sized tree growing to 40ft. Has large leaves with prominent veins and fuzz. The strange flowers are borne for much of the Spring and Summer, followed by large, woody-like pods which open to contain several seeds. The flowers are popular with certain birds who drink nectar from the cup-like petals beneath the hand. The pods may persist on the branches for many months.

Hardiness

Hardy to about 20F.

Growing Environment

The tree flourishes in cool subtropical climates that receive minimal frost but have cooler nights. Grows fine in full sun and does particularly well in fog-belt regions. It should be watered regularly and will enjoy humidity. Plant in well-drained soil.

Propagation

By seeds, which should be planted fairly soon after harvest. They generally take a minimum of 6-8 weeks for germination, but often longer.

Uses

Planted as an ornamental.

Native Range

Native from Guatemala through Southern Mexico.

Additional Pictures

Related Species

Malvaceae
	Adansonia digitata Baobab		Alyogyne huegelii Blue Hibiscus
	Ansiodontea x hypomandarum Cape Mallow		Chiranthodendron pentadactylon Mexican Hand Tree
	Cola acuminata Cola Nut		Herrania imbricata Monkey Cacao
	Hibiscus palustris Swamp Rose Mallow		Hibiscus sabdariffa Roselle
	Hibiscus taiwanensis Cream Hibiscus		Hibiscus tiliaceus Beach Hibiscus
	Theobroma bicolor Mocambo		Theobroma cacao Cacao
	Theobroma grandiflorum Cupuassu		Theobroma speciosum Cacaui
	Theobroma subincanum Cupui