Combretum, Genus, spp., Multiple species,
- Genus
- Multiple species
Bushwillows
Tropical Africa, Asia, and the Americas
Overview
Combretum is a genus of about 250 species of shrubs, trees, and woody climbers in the family Combretaceae, native to the tropics and subtropics of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, with the greatest diversity in Africa. Plants range from low shrubs to large lianas and trees 6-50 ft (1.8-15 m) or more, with simple, opposite leaves and small flowers packed into dense spikes or heads. The flowers lack showy petals but carry many protruding stamens in cream, yellow, red, or orange that give the spikes a brush-like look. The fruit is a four- or five-winged pod that turns papery and red-brown, aiding wind dispersal. C. indicum, the Rangoon creeper, is a widely grown climber with fragrant flowers that open white and age to pink and red. Several African bushwillows are used for timber, fodder, and habitat. Plants tolerate heat and seasonal drought, and many are frost-tender. The winged fruits persist on the plant and stay decorative for weeks.
Native Range
Combretum is native to tropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, and the Americas, with most species in Africa. Plants grow in savanna, woodland, riverbanks, and forest margins. The Rangoon creeper C. indicum is cultivated across the tropics far beyond its Asian origin.Suggested Uses
Grown as flowering climbers on pergolas, fences, and arbors, and as shrubs, screens, and shade trees in warm gardens. The Rangoon creeper is used for fragrant, color-changing flowers in tropical plantings. African bushwillow trees are planted for shade, wildlife, and timber.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 50'
Width/Spread6' - 30'
Bloom Information
Flowering is concentrated in the warm, wet season, often spring to summer, with the brush-like spikes lasting one to several weeks. The Rangoon creeper opens white flowers that age through pink to red over a few days. The winged fruits follow and persist for weeks.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
cream, yellow, red, or orangeFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
