Chinese lantern (Nymania capensis)

Chinese lantern

Chinese lantern (Nymania capensis) is a large shrub or small tree that offers plenty of ornamental interest with its abundance of puffy pink seedpods. It is a desert plant that is difficult to propagate but makes a great addition to rock gardens in arid climates. In the wild, the plant's air-filled seedpods are spread by the wind, blowing across the arid land like tumbleweeds.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese lantern (Nymania capensis)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Spring, Summer, Winter

Bloom Time

1 m to 3 m

Plant Height

1 m to 3 m

Spread

White, Yellow, Pink, Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese lantern

Distribution of Chinese lantern

Distribution Map

Chinese lantern is indigenous to the southern regions of the African continent. The species has a native range that encompasses both arid and Mediterranean-type ecosystems within this major region. While there is no specific data on its introduction to other regions, chinese lantern's distribution remains largely confined to its native habitats in Africa.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Scrub of gorges, open veld, river banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Chinese lantern

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, chinese lantern thrives with minimal moisture and high drought tolerance. It adapts to infrequent rainfall, requiring watering every 2-3 weeks. As an outdoor plant in xeriscapes, chinese lantern conserves water in its tissues, suited for low precipitation and high temperature environments.

Fertilize: Fertilize chinese lantern monthly with balanced nutrition (equal nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) during the growing season to support healthy growth. Use high-nitrogen fertilizer sparingly for leaf development. Reduce frequency in dormancy and always water thoroughly after fertilization to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Chinese lantern needs early spring pruning to remove dead or diseased branches and thin overcrowded areas for better air circulation. Shaping enhances its appearance and promotes growth, leading to more abundant flowering and fruiting, ensuring chinese lantern is a highlighted feature in any garden.

Propagation: Chinese lantern is an arid-region native with distinctive seed pods resembling lanterns. For propagation, use healthy non-flowering stem cuttings; allow the cut end to callous before planting in well-draining soil. Consistent moisture is crucial for successful root development without waterlogging.

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Images of Chinese lantern

Distribution of Chinese lantern

Care Guide for Chinese lantern

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