Family: Bignoniaceae
Common name: China doll, Serpent tree, Emerald tree, China doll tree, China doll plant, Asian bell tree
China doll tree is a new entrant into the garden scene, but now its being grown everywhere, indoors and outdoors, loved for their bright green, glossy leaves. They are native to China as the name ‘sinica’ suggests.
Plant characteristics
These trees can grow to a height of up to 30 meters, but the garden variant only grows 2-3 meters tall. China doll trees have strong brown stems that branch very well from the base, helping the tree spread well. They have a smooth texture, contrasting beautifully with the bright green leaves.
These trees grow well-rounded and compact, making them attractive ornamental plants for parks, gardens, and office spaces.
Leaves are the most notable feature – deep green with a glossy finish.
China doll tree leaves are bipinnately compound, each leaf about 20-30 cm long with several small leaflets, each of them 3-5 cm long. Younger leaves are light green in color, slowly turning dark green and shiny like emeralds, giving the tree its name.
China doll trees can produce yellow or white flowers that are about 7 cm in diameter, but it very rare in the variants commonly grown in gardens and indoors. In their natural surroundings, these trees produce large bunches of white or cream-colored flowers with yellow throats, that emit a pleasant fragrance, especially at night.
They also produce long, brown seedpods that are cylindrical in cross section and curved, giving the tree its name Serpent tree. These fruits split open on maturity to release numerous winged seeds.
Gardening Tips
China doll trees are currently very popular among gardeners and landscapers in India, because of their fast-growing habit, bright green glossy leaves, and ease of maintenance. They can grow well in full sun, partial shade, or near a sunny window.
Watering should be done carefully since underwatering and overwatering can affect the appearance and health of the leaves. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
While growing them in pots, use well-drained soil to prevent root issues. China doll tree roots are relatively compact, allowing them to thrive in medium-sized pots.
Regular pruning can help the tree stay compact. In countries with harsh winters, it is ideal to move the plant indoors or to glass houses. These plants do not like change in location, and might drop leaves in large numbers, but they grow back when the plant acclimatizes to the new growing conditions.
These trees were relatively unknown outside of Asia till late 20th century, after which it started gaining popularity as an ornamental plant. The name China doll suggests its origin, and also the delicate nature of its foliage.
Propagation is through seeds or stem cuttings.
Photographed at: Bangalore International Airport, Terminal 2
