Family: Magnoliaceae
Orange champaca is a fragrant tree growing up to 100 feet tall. It makes for a handsome specimen if given enough room to grow. Give it a 50 foot spread to reach its full potential! The trunk can grow to 6 feet in diameter. Sometimes buttress roots form at the base of the tree. The flowers are pale yellow to orange when compared to other Michelia species. The flowers emit a strong scent at night; for some, it’s too much.
Orange champaca is the most commonly planted member of the genus. It is both fast-growing and requires no special conditions, just room to grow. Often planted near temples and considered a sacred tree, champaka has been cultivated since antiquity. The native range is thought to be India.
Besides horticultural value, champaka has many uses. The timber is used for almost anything, from construction to furniture. It resembles teak. Essential oil and perfume are made from flowers. In addition, many parts of the tree have medicinal value.
Seeds should be sown within two weeks of ripening. Trees are propagated by air layer or grafting. Air layered trees will flower sooner than trees from seed.
Plant Uses:
- Container plant
- Cultural significance
- Cut flower
- Fragrant
- Lei flower
- Medicinal
- Ornamental
- Privacy / screening
- Specimen
- Woodworking
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
