SafePlants

Devil's Hand Tree (Chiranthodendron pentadactylon)

The Devil's Hand Tree, scientifically known as Chiranthodendron pentadactylon, is a captivating and somewhat eerie evergreen tree native to Central America.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the stem being clothed with brown hairs that rub off easily. Consider that these hairs may cause irritation if ingested or come into contact with skin.

Considerations for Children

• The tree's name, "Devil's Hand," and the hand-shaped appearance of its blooms might be frightening to some children.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Chiranthodendron pentadactylon
• Common Names: Devil's Hand Tree, Monkey's Hand Tree, Mexican Hand Tree, Árbol de la manita, Camxchitl, Mano de dragon, Palo de mecate

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Chiranthodendron
• Family: Malvaceae (formerly Sterculiaceae in some references)
• The genus Chiranthodendron is monotypic, containing only one species: Chiranthodendron pentadactylon.
• Synonyms:
  • Chiranthodendron californicum Baill.
  • Chiranthodendron platanoides (Bonpl.) Baill.
  • Cheirostemon platanoides

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the cloud forests of Central America, specifically Guatemala and southern Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics

• Fast-growing evergreen tree.
• Can reach heights of 50 feet or more.

Quirky Facts

• The tree's flowers are shaped like hands, giving it its distinctive common names. Some people find the appearance spooky.
• The genus name Chiranthodendron comes from Greek words meaning "hand-flower-tree."
• Cortez, the conqueror of the Aztec Empire, first noted this plant in Montezuma's gardens in 1520.

Traditional Uses

• The flowers have been traditionally used in Mexican and Guatemalan folk medicine for various medicinal purposes.

Further Information

• USDA Plants database
• Wikimedia Commons
• B and T World Seeds' database