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Monkey Hand Tree

An evergreen tree reaching 35-90 feet tall in habitat with large heart-shaped leaves.  The flowers have no petals but rather an enlarged, dark red nectar-filled calyx (sepals) from which protrudes a bright red structure and five stamens, somewhat resembling a hand.  This fast growing tree does best in full sun and requires regular watering.  There is only one species in the genus (monotypic) and the flowers are bat or perching bird pollinated.

Chiranthodendron pentadactylon has maroon and pink flowers
Latin Name: 
Chiranthodendron pentadactylon
Family Name: 
Place of Origin: 
Southern Mexico and Guatamala
Bloom Time: 
Garden Location: 
East of Phoebe's Meadow