Chiranthodendron

Chiranthodendron – Best Trees In New Zealand

Growing colourful trees such as Chiranthodendron in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They can be used to provide shade, screening, and shelter.
• They attract birds.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have amazing Monkey’s Hand Trees, and the right one for your space. These have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Chiranthodendron, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Chiranthodendron Questions

1. How do you care for a Chiranthodendron pentadactylon?

Caring for a Chiranthodendron pentadactylon, also known as the Monkey's Hand Tree or the Devil's Hand Tree, is relatively straightforward. Here are a few things to consider:

• These trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day. However, they can tolerate some shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is at its strongest.
• Well-draining soil is essential. Chiranthodendron pentadactylon have shallow roots and does not like any prolonged wet.
• Keep the soil evenly moist but not sodden.
• Chiranthodendron pentadactylon prefers temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). They can tolerate occasional dips to 50°F (10°C), but avoid exposure to freezing temperatures.
• These trees prefer moderate humidity levels but can adapt to drier conditions.
• Feed your tree once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
• These trees naturally have a rounded shape and don't require much pruning. However, you can prune off any dead or diseased branches or remove any unwanted shoots to maintain the desired shape.
• Aphids and scale can be pests but are easily controlled with the right insecticide.
• Root rot can be a problem if the soil is too wet.

2. What are the benefits of chiranthodendron?

The benefits of Chiranthodendron, also known as the Monkey's Hand Tree or Flor de Manita, can be broadly categorized into three main areas:

1. Ornamental:

• Unique and eye-catching appearance: Their vibrant red flowers resembling hands, followed by green, lobed leaves, make them a conversation starter in any garden.
• Fast-growing: They can reach a mature height of around 15 metres relatively quickly, offering shade and privacy.
• Tolerant: Adapts well to a range of soil conditions and can handle some sun exposure and mild frost.

2. Medicinal:

• Traditional uses: In traditional Mayan and Mexican medicine, various parts of the Chiranthodendron, particularly the flowers, are used to treat various ailments like heart problems, epilepsy, diarrhoea, and ulcers. However, it's important to note that scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and consulting a healthcare professional before using it for any medicinal purposes is crucial.
• Antimicrobial properties: Studies have shown extracts from the flowers possess antibacterial and antiprotozoal properties, offering potential for further research in developing new treatments.

3. Cultural:

• Religious significance: The Mayan people considered the Chiranthodendron to be sacred and associated it with creation and rebirth.
• Folklore: The unique hand-shaped flowers have inspired diverse myths and legends across cultures, adding to their cultural significance.

Important Note: It's crucial to remember that using Chiranthodendron for medicinal purposes should only be done under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. While it has been used traditionally, scientific evidence for its effectiveness and potential side effects is still limited. Always prioritize your health and seek professional advice before ingesting any herbal remedy.

3. What is the plant that looks like a hand?

The most well-known plant that resembles a hand is undoubtedly the Devil's Hand Tree (Chiranthodendron pentadactylon), also known as the Monkey's Hand Tree or the Mexican Hand Tree. It's native to Guatemala and southern Mexico and boasts stunning, bright red flowers with five elongated stamens that split and curl downwards, creating an uncanny resemblance to an open hand.

These "hand-shaped" flowers bloom in spring and summer, adding an undeniably eerie yet fascinating touch to any garden. However, be aware that the Devil's Hand Tree is quite rare and finding it readily available could be a challenge.