17 Trees with Red Flowers (All Types)

Are you searching for a tree that offers red flowers to complete your landscape design?

The good news is that trees that have red flowers come in all shapes and sizes and can be grown indoors and outside. In addition, trees with red flowers are available as a smaller shrub to very large mature trees. Some of these trees do best in bright, all-day sun, while others thrive with partial shade.

Related: Trees with Blue Flowers | Trees with Purple Flowers | Trees with Yellow Flowers | Trees with White Flowers | Trees with Orange Flowers 

1. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)

The Crape Myrtle, is native to Korea and China. It is a fast-growing shrub that has the potential to grow up to 2 feet each year. This tree is well suited for hot climates with lots of sunshine. The crape myrtle can grow to heights of nearly 25 feet and spread more than a dozen feet when mature.

The crape myrtle blooms from late spring into the fall season. To increase flowering production for the upcoming season, pinch new growth during the growing season.

• Sun Preference – Ideally, the Crape Myrtle prefers full sun– this translates to six hours of unfiltered – direct sunlight daily.
• Water Preference – while it can tolerate a bit of drought, the crape myrtle is like well-drained but moist sites.
• Soil pH – crape myrtle can grow in a variety of soils (even limited) that range from slightly alkaline to acidic.
• Hardiness Zone – can grow in hardiness Zone 6 – 9.

2. Lemon Bottlebrush Tree (Callistemon Citrinus)

The Lemon Bottlebrush Tree is a tough evergreen type tree that is native to Eastern Australia. This reliable, tough tree that is drought-tolerant is named as its flowers have the shape of a bottlebrush. The Bottlebrush tree is capable of growing to heights of nearly 25 feet, with a canopy that can grow equally wide. It leaves, when crushed, the smell of lemons and can be used as a tea substitute.

The tree needs routine top trimming, with flowers that bloom in the spring, or the summer and fruit enjoyed by wildlife during the fall season.

• Sun Preference – the Lemon Bottlebrush tree enjoys partial shade and full sunshine.
• Water Preference – the Lemon Bottlebrush is a low- to average water-usage tree.
• Soil pH – soil that is used can be slightly acidic to very alkaline.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 8a through 10b – depending on temperatures.

3. Tree Rhododendron (Rhododendron Arboretum)

The Rhododendron is an amazing addition to any yard or garden, offering evergreen foliage and beautiful blossoms. Rhododendron is a low-maintenance, classic tree. Depending on the region & the type of rhododendron (there are 900 species), these trees can grow as large as 20 feet, although dwarf types are only 1.5 feet at maturity. The red coned bloomed are crimson in color and quite hardy.

It is best to prune Rhododendrons after the flowering occurs in the Spring, although it is wise to remove dead growth when needed.

• Sun Preference – Rhododendrons are partial to the sun and should have six to eight hours of full to partial sun ideally.
• Water Preference – low water needs and drought tolerant.
• Soil pH – Rhododendrons tend to love acidic soil with a pH that hovers between 4.5 and 6.0.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 4 – 8.

4. Japanese Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles Japonica)

The Japanese Flowering Quince is an attractive, low-maintenance red flowering shrub with an annual growth rate considered to be moderate. Its countries of origin include South Korea and Japan, with flowers that bloom each spring from this shrub which grows up to three feet tall and just as wide. It is best to prune the Japanese Flowering Quince after it flowers in the spring. This will stimulate next year’s growth but avoid over-pruning.

• Sun Preference – The flowering quince prefers bright, full sunlight to flourish.
• Water Preference – organically rich soil that drains well.
• Soil pH – this flowering plant prefers slightly acid soil conditions which typically are a pH between 5 – 6.0.
• Hardiness Zone – 4 through 9.

5. Red Frangipani (Plumeria Rubra)

The Red Frangipani, which is native to Panama and Mexico, is a deciduous tropical small tree characterized by succulent branches and beautifully fragrant flowers that grow as large as four inches. The hardy Red Frangipani can grow as tall as 25 feet and needs regular pruning, which is easiest in the winter when leaves drop. Do not over prune as this may result in the next flowering season.

• Sun Preference – this small tree prefers a fully sunny spot and can be drought tolerant.
• Water Preference – the Red Frangipani performs well in rich, well-drained soils. Needs less water in the winter.
• Soil pH – acid, alkaline, or neutral.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 10 to 12 but is susceptible to freezing temps.

6. Japanese Maple (Acer Palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’)

The Japanese Maple is a striking tree that grows as tall and as wide as 30 feet at a rate of one to two feet per year. As a general rule, a Japanese Maple, which has hundreds of varieties, requires very little pruning as it creates its own naturally pleasing shape. The beauty of this tree allows it to be a centerpiece or combined with others for a dramatic effect.

• Sun Preference – prefers a location that offers at least part of the day’s sunlight. Too much light or wind may damage the maple’s delicate leaves.
• Water Preference – water regularly but avoid extreme moisture. Mulch can be added to protect the maple’s roots.
• Soil pH – prefers slightly acidic with organic matter regularly added. Avoid high pH areas to prevent the yellowing of leaves.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 5 to 8.

7. Shoeblackplant (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis)

The Shoeblackplant, which is also known as the Chinese Hibiscus) is a tropical perennial, evergreen tree with hundreds of species located throughout the world. This hibiscus tree is native to tropical Asia and flowers year-round. It is also the country of Malaysia’s national flower. The Shoeblackplant grows to twelve feet (or higher) and attracts nectar-loving birds. In addition, this hibiscus’s flowers are edible, with its extracts used in herbal cosmetics that include mascara and eye-liner, among others. These trees need little pruning during their growing season unless grown indoors with space limitations.

• Sun Preference – the Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis loves a spot with full sun but does best in less windy placements.

• Water Preference – the Shoeblackplant performs best with lots of water but prefers not to sit in water.
• Soil pH – prefers acid pH levels and will shrink if the soil is too alkaline.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 9 to 12.

8. Royal Poinciana Tree (Delonix Regia)

The Royal Poinciana Tree, which is also known as the flame tree, is native to Madagascar and considered among the most beautiful in the world. The flowers of the Royal Poinciana Tree first appear on the tree from May through the month of June and last about one month. This tree, when mature, can grow to reach heights of 40 feet, with a beautifully wide canopy (up to 70 feet), and are quite common, especially in South Florida. Pruning, right before spring growth, is important as it helps create a stronger tree.

• Sun Preference – for the best flowering results, the Royal Poinciana Tree prefers bright sunny areas.
• Water Preference – the soil should be kept moist but should never be soggy until the tree’s roots are firmly established. The Tree is dormant in winter.
• Soil pH – the Royal Poinciana Tree can tolerate several varieties of soil with pH levels that range from 4.9 to 10.6.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 9b to 11.

9. Royal Burgundy Flowering Cherry (Prunus Serrulate)

The Royal Burgundy Flowering Cherry is a hybrid Japanese Cherry tree that can grow as tall as 20 feet with a top spread of 15 feet. The flowers of the Royal Burgundy deciduous tree appear in mid to late April. The Royal Burgundy, with a shallow root system, requires frequent pruning because its strong budding capacity can be inhibited by overcrowding and poor light and air circulation.

• Sun Preference – the Royal Burgundy, as a fruit tree, requires full sunlight to thrive. Ideally, there should be at least eight hours of direct sunlight, with six hours as a bare minimum.
• Water Preference – this deciduous flowering cherry tree needs regular watering and extra water when facing extreme heat.
• Soil pH – these beautiful red flowering trees prefer a pH range between 4.5 to 7. 5, with sandy loam and organically rich soil that may contain some clay.
• Hardiness zone – Zones 5 to 8.

10. Dogwood (Cornus Florida)

The Flowering Dogwood is a broadleaf, flowering deciduous tree that blooms its showy flowers each spring with fruit that matures in the fall.  The Dogwood tree, native to North America, can grow as high as 30 feet and span more than two dozen feet as well. These trees are found in the eastern portion of the United States and Northern Mexico. Dogwoods are preferred by many because they have a naturally pleasing shape and need only a little pruning.

• Sun Preference – this tree prefers a partly shaded spot and does not do well with salty sprays or wind.
• Water Preference – moderate water is required.
• Soil pH – the Dogwood tree prefers a more acidic soil of sand or loam and does not do well in heavy traffic areas.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 8a to 9b.

11. Crimson King (Norway Maple – Acer Platanoides)

The Crimson King is a large tree that grows as tall as 40 feet (and 40 feet as wide) when mature. The Crimson King is a deciduous plant with gorgeous crimson leaves throughout the summer. Pruning, which is recognized to be low maintenance, is only required during the Crimson King’s dormant season before the sap runs in the spring. The Crimson King Maple is often prized for its incredible ability to offer a beautiful accent and decent shade.

• Sun Preference – the Crimson King loves the sun and requires full or partial sunlight for at least six hours.
• Water Preference – the water requirements of the Crimson King are considered average, but the soil should stay somewhat moist and be well-drained.
• Soil pH –
• Hardiness zone – Zones 3 to 7.

12. Prairie Crabapple Tree (Malus Prairifire)

The Crabapple Tree is a stunning hardy tree that offers amazing red flowers that are long-lasting after their spring blossoming. This tree can grow as tall as twenty feet, with a spread that can reach nearly fifteen feet when mature. The Prairie Crabapple can grow one to two feet each year, which is considered moderate. The tree is an important source of food for many birds and other wildlife.

• Sun Preference – the Prairie Crabapple Tree prefers full sun and should receive at least six hours of unfiltered and direct sun daily.
• Water Preference – the Crabapple prefers a slow deep watering system which helps create deep roots that facilitate drought stress.
• Soil pH – this flowering tree can grow in a variety of pH soils (acidic and alkaline). The soil can be sandy, loamy, or clay.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 3 to 8.

13. Scarlet Rosemallow Hibiscus (Hibiscus Coccineus)

The Scarlet Rosemallow Hibiscus is a red flowering perennial that is native to the southern United States, with a preferred habitat of marshes, coastal plains, and swamps. The Scarlet Rosemallow Hibiscus grows to six to eight feet and blooms over a long period of time in July, August, and September. The flowers are large and grow up to six inches, with a spread upwards of five feet. The red flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds and are found across Florida.

• Sun Preference – this tree grows well in full sun or a spot with partial shade.
• Water Preference – the Scarlet Hibiscus does well in moist, rich soils that are properly drained.
• Soil pH – this flowering tree prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level somewhere between 6.5 and 6.8.
• Hardiness zone – Zones 8a to 11.

14. Red Silk Cotton Tree (Bombax Ceiba)

The Red Silk Cotton Tree, which is native to India, China, East Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia, is a fast-growing spring-blooming tree. This tree grows, which is considered a slow to moderately growing tree, can reach heights of sixty feet. The Red Silk Cotton Tree is characterized by bright shiny leaves and cup-shaped \ blooms that have five petals and appear in early springtime. In its native, humid environments, it can reach over 100 feet. This tree is noted for attracting wildlife.

• Sun Preference – the Red Silk Cotton Tree enjoys full sunshine (six or more hours per day) in tropical or subtropical locations.
• Water Preference – the soil should have dry to medium moisture but have proper drainage.
• Soil pH -can grow in neutral or alkaline soils.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 10a to 12b.

15. The African Tulip Tree (Spathodea Campanulata)

The African Tulip Tree, which is native to the African continent’s rainforest, can grow as high as eighty feet, most African Tulip Trees are about sixty feet high with a span of forty feet. An established African Tulip Tree, which grows fairly fast, should be pruned regularly because its branches are brittle and easily breakable in high winds. Always wear gloves when working as this tree is poisonous.

• Sun Preference – The African Tulip will grow best in full sunlight and tropical conditions but can tolerate a shady spot. This includes high humidity.
• Water Preference – this tree can endure a bit of drought but grows best when it is in rich, well-drained, and moist soil.
• Soil pH – The African Tulip prefers deep, moist soil that is slightly acidic. They will thrive within a pH range of 5 to 8.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 10 a to 11.

16. Powder Puff Trees (Calliandra Haematocephala)

The Calliandra is technically a shrubby plant that grows up to thirteen feet that is native to Bolivia and Brazil. The Calliandra, with its unique ornamental flowers, is native to tropical climates. If flowers from April to August or late summer. When winter is over, carefully prune/balance the Calliandra tree/shrub before it begins to flower. The dwarf Calliandra grows quickly to six feet, although in its native areas, the Calliandra can grow upwards of 15 feet. This tree requires a bit of pruning, including pinching, shearing, and thinning.

• Sun Preference – this interesting red flowering shrub loves the sun (at least six hours per day) but can tolerate a bit of shade.
• Water Preference – Calliandra prefers moisture, so it is best not to let it dry out.
• Soil pH – Power Puff Trees prefer mostly sand to clay loam with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 9 to 11.

17. Waratah (Telopea Speciosissima)

The Waratah, which is native to Australia and the New South Wales floral emblem, is a hardy flowering bush that has five species. The Waratah four-inch flowers typically bloom from October to November and are grown for the cut flower trade. This is because the gorgeous flowers last unusually long after being cut. The Waratah grows up to thirteen feet in height but is considered a slow-growing type of tree. Pruning is required for the best blooms.

• Sun Preference – the Waratah requires bright sun to thrive.
• Water Preference – the Waratah requires moderate watering to thrive.
• Soil pH – prefers acidic soil (pH of 5 to 6) that can be sandy-loam, sandstone, and deep sand.
• Hardiness Zone – Zones 8 to 11.