Peltophorum africanum inflorescence

The lowermost flowers in this stem-tip Peltophorum africanum inflorescence have opened, presenting their crinkled petals. The anthers protrude from the open flowers, mostly darker than the yellow of the corolla.

Higher up, the stalked, globular buds are becoming pale near their tips as the bulging, folded corollas push the sepals to open. Buds (the sepals) and their stalks are covered in fine, rust-coloured hairs.

A spray typically becomes 15 cm long; at the stage of the photo tending towards a cone-shape. The stem-tip or axillary sprays are usually erect or angled outwards.

Much nectar and pollen are produced, making the blooming of this tree a welcome event to bee-keepers. The long blooming season during the hotter months comes as a bonus (Coates Palgrave, 2002; Pooley, 1998).