On the rise in cultivation, this shrub or small tree is native to eastern Africa. It is commonly known as the Nile tulip or Nile trumpet for its funnel-shaped yellow flowers, which grow in terminal clusters. Markhamia lutea is a fast-growing species in good conditions⁠—up to 2 m (6.6 ft) a year—and can begin to bloom after only four to five years. It typically reaches 4 to 5 m (13 to 16 ft) in height outside its native habitat but can be as tall as 10 to 15 m (33 to 49 ft) in an ideal environment. The large leaves, up to a foot long, are a favorite snack of elephants. Despite the lush, tropical-looking foliage, the tree is drought-tolerant once established. It can be grown in a variety of well-drained soil types and prefers a sunny position.

Suitable for outdoor planting in USDA plant hardiness zones 10 to 11

Minimum tested germination rate is 65%

Collected in 2022 in Kenya