Brownea macrophylla (Big)

A spectacular flowering tree from Central and South American rainforests, producing extraordinary globe-shaped flower heads in vivid scarlet-red with long, thread-like stamens — one of the most visually dramatic blooms in the tropical plant world, surrounded by large, glossy deep green leaves that make the flowers even more striking.

• Light: Bright indirect light to partial sun. Thrives in a warm greenhouse with good ambient brightness. Avoid harsh direct midday sun on young plants.
• Temperature: Warm-growing; prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from temperatures below 55°F (13°C) — this is a true tropical species that does not tolerate cold.
• Humidity: High humidity preferred, ideally 60–80%. Best suited for a warm, humid greenhouse environment.
• Watering: Keep the substrate consistently moist but never waterlogged. Ensure good drainage — established plants are moderately drought-tolerant but perform best with regular moisture.

Additional Notes:

Best grown in a rich, well-draining mix of potting soil and perlite. A slow-growing tree that rewards patience — mature specimens produce their spectacular flower heads directly from the trunk and main branches (cauliflory), making them a true showpiece in any tropical collection.