A very striking tree when in bloom, Geiger Tree is gaining popularity to beautify Indian cities. This evergreen tree is a native of Northern coast of South America and Florida Keys. The tree is named after Captain John.H.Geiger, who lived in Key West.
Botanical name of Geiger Tree is Cordia Sebestena and belongs to Boraginaceae (Forget-me-not family). Other common names are Scarlet Cordia, Orange Geiger Tree, and Sebesten plum. It is known as Lal Lasora in Hindi, Challekendala in Kannada, and Raktarag in Bengali.
The tree grows to a height of 25 feet with a thin trunk. The leaves are 7 inches long, oval, dark green, coarse, and furry. Geiger Tree is also known as the rough-leaved Cordia.
At the end of the branches bloom the orange tubular flowers in bunches. Each flower is 2 inch wide and the contrasting color of the flower enhances the beauty of the tree. Blooming season is from May to September.
The fruit is 2 inch long, oval, fragrant, and edible.
Propagation:
Geiger tree can be grown through seeds and cuttings. Plant this tree in full sun.
