Lipstick tree

Also known as bixa orellana or achiote, the lipstick tree is a shrub or small tree which originates from the tropical regions of the Americas. It is best known as the source of the natural pigment annatto, produced from its fruit.

The plant bears pink flowers and bright red spiny fruits which contain red seeds. June and July are the best time to enjoy its flowers.

It is of particular commercial value in the United States because the country considers annatto colorants made from it to be “exempt from certification.” It is used as a condiment in traditional dishes.

In China, it is an effective medicine for healing tapioca poisoning and reducing phlegm.

Where to find it: Lianhua Hill Park in Futian

Lagerstroemia

Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crape myrtle, is a genus of around 50 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.

It is planted along roads, in parks and residential areas in the city. Flowers bloom in summer and its colors vary from deep purple to red to white.

The timber of some species has been used to manufacture bridges, furniture and railway sleepers.

Where to find it: All major parks in the city

Yellow bell

Yellow bell, also known as allamanda, golden trumpet or buttercup flower, is a genus of tropical shrubs native to South and Central America. It is commonly used to decorate homes due to its brightness and resilience.

Its yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers are 5 to 7.5 centimeters in diameter and its scent may be described as delicate and fruity.

It is also noted for its medicinal properties. All parts of the plant contain allamandin, a toxic iridoid lactone. The leaves, root and flowers may be used in the preparation of a powerful cathartic and its milky sap is also known to possess antibacterial and possibly anticancer properties.

Where to find it: Lianhua Hill Park in Futian

Sterculia lanceolata

Sterculia lanceolata is a small local evergreen wild tree.

In summer, it is one of the most conspicuous evergreen wild trees because of its large vivid scarlet fruits. The leaves are elliptical with acute apex and blunt base. The leaf stalk is swollen at each end. Some trees change their leaves in June and July at a time when other trees are usually in full foliage. Its brown leaves and bare branches stand out conspicuously and make it easy to recognize.

Where to find: Lianhua Hill Park in Futian

Frangipani

Frangipani has several common names such as red frangipani, plumeria rubra, temple trees or simply plumeria. Originally native to Mexico, it has been widely cultivated in subtropical and tropical climates worldwide and is a popular garden and park plant, as well as being used in temples and cemeteries.

It is an important crop in Hawaii and worn by the locals. In China, it is also a special and famous dish of the Dai nationality in Yunnan Province.

Where to find: Lianhua Hill Park in Futian

(Wang Yuanyuan)

IN July, a wide range of flowers and fruits thrive in Shenzhen. Shenzhen Park Management Center has released a guide for where to find the most spectacular and diverse plant life.