Maga – Thespesia grandiflora

Thespesia grandiflora is the national flower of Puerto Rico. It is closely related to the hibiscus and has a similar flower but is actually in the Mallow family. The plant is a medium sized tree that can grow up to 40 feet in height. It is a native tree to tropical humid forests but can be cultivated in other situations. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in tropical regions.

The flower is called Flor de Maga. The plant is an evergreen perennial with a woody trunk. The wood is valuable as timber and used as lumber, veneer and pulpwood. Leaves are heart shaped and 2 to 8 inches long. Flowering occurs when the tree is 5 to 7 years of age. Flowers arise singly from large petioles on leaf bases. The flower is the size of a saucer, bright red with pronounced stamen. Petals are arranged in a cup shape with 5 overlapping petals. The tree blooms repeatedly all year around.

Maga requires full sun to partial shade, regular moisture and well draining soil. It is intolerant of frost and suitable in United States Department of Agriculture zone 11 only. It is propagated through persistent seed and has a moderately slow growth.

Descriptions

• Seedlings - No information.
• Stems - Woody
• Leaves - Dark Green
• Flowers - Red
• Fruits - No information.
• Seeds - No information.
• Roots - 36 inches

Plant Details

• Type - Perennial
• USDA Zones - 11
• Flower Colors - Red
• Plant Height - 30 feet
• Plant Width - No information.
• Bloomtime Period - Year around
• Native Habitat - No
• Toxicity and allergic reactions - No information.
• What Parts Toxic - No information.
• Toxic to humans - No information.
• Toxic to cats - No information.
• Toxic to dogs - No information.
• Edible - No information.
• Edible Parts - No information.
• Spacing - No information.
• Planting Depth - No information.
• Invasive - No
• Special Features - No information.

Growing Information

• Light Requirement - Sun to partial sun
• Soil Requirements - No information.
• Care Information - No information.
• Propagation Methods - Seeds
• Harvest Information - No information.
• Seed Collection Information - No information.
• Pruning - No information.
• Common Pests - No information.
• Common Diseases - No information.
• Landscape Uses - No information.

Facts & Trivia