Ficus macrophylla - Moreton Bay Fig -... Pictures by Delonix1

Ficus macrophylla - Moreton Bay Fig - large branch cut

This is where 3 year ago they cut the huge branch that was around 60 feet wide. It damaged some of the rare palms that are located in palm canyon, fortunately they have recovered. Also, notice there's a China Doll Tree (Radermachera sinica) growing in the crotch of this tree. There is a large China Doll Tree growing about a 100 feet away that has many flowers and seed pods.

Photo 52 of 487

Delonix1

[2]

By Delonix1

Uploaded on 18 Sep, 2008

Comments on this photo

Terratoonie

18 Sep, 2008

I looked up China Doll tree.
It says evergreen:
also known as Serpent Tree or Asian Bell Tree.

I can understand the 'Bell' name from the flower shape.
Do you know why its called China Doll or Serpent?
Are those names also because of the flower shape?
Thanks.

Delonix1

18 Sep, 2008

Terratoonie, China Doll Tree is an extremely fast growing tree which has white or yellow fragrant bell flowers. It is native to tropical Southeast Asia where it can grow to 80 feet tall (I have seen them that tall in Hawaii). I have seen 30+ foot trees here in San Diego, however, in the San Francisco Bay Area...I have these trees almost 50 feet tall. I think it is because the soil is better and they receive a lot more rain.

I can only guess that the name "Serpent" has to to with the shape of the seed pods which are long and wavy, resembling a serpent. I will post a picture of a tree with the seed pods soon.