Parkinsonia aculeata L.

Frost-tender, small, spreading, often weeping, deciduous tree with spiny green stems, slender, 2-pinnate leaves with many tiny leaflets which fold up at night, and racemes of 2-15 cup-shaped, sweetly scented bright yellow flowers with orange markings and stamens, to 2cm across, in spring.  To 10m.  In dry, frost-free areas it is suitable for hedging and screening, its light, open structure allowing turf and other plants to thrive in its shade.  [RHSE, Hortus].

Horticultural & Botanical History

Introduced to Britain in 1739.  [JD].

History at Camden Park

Only listed in the 1850 catalogue.  In Macarthur’s possession since at least 1844 as plants were sent to Wm. Macarthur Esq. in February of that year.

Notes

See also Poinciana pulcherrima (L.) Sw.

Published Dec 24, 2009 - 02:18 PM | Last updated Jul 21, 2010 - 12:38 PM


More details about Parkinsonia aculeata L.
Family Fabaceae
Category
Region of origin

Southern USA, Mexico

Synonyms
Common Name

Jerusalem thorn, Ratama

Name in the Camden Park Record

Parkinsonia aculeata 

Confidence level high