The African tulip tree is one of the most beautiful flowering trees in the world. Native to tropical Africa it is the only species in its genus. The tree has clusters of large flamboyant red orange flowers that split open vertically in a trumpet shape. The open flowers are cup-shaped and hold rain and dew, making them attractive to many species of birds, while their nectar is popular with many hummingbirds. The tree blooms all year round although the flowers only last for a few days. In Africa, this tree is known for its medicinal properties: the leaves and bark decoction is used to cure rashes and inflamed skin, the bark helps to lower the levels of blood sugar, while the paste made from the bark is used for healing wounds.