Tabebuia, Genus, spp., Multiple species,
- Genus
- Multiple species
trumpet trees
Overview
Tabebuia is a genus of about 67 species of shrubs and trees in the family Bignoniaceae, native to the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, from Mexico and the Caribbean to Argentina. Plants grow from 10 to 100 ft (3-30 m) tall, with palmately compound leaves of three to seven leaflets and trumpet-shaped flowers 1.5-4 in (4-10 cm) long in pink, rose, white, or pale yellow. Many species flower heavily on bare branches before or as the new leaves appear, covering the canopy in color for a few weeks. The fruit is a long, slender pod that splits to release winged seeds. T. rosea, the pink trumpet tree, and T. heterophylla are widely planted as street and shade trees in warm regions. The closely related yellow-flowered trees once placed here are now grouped in Handroanthus. Plants tolerate heat and a range of soils but are frost-tender. The wood of several species is hard and durable.
Native Range
Tabebuia is native to the American tropics and subtropics, from Mexico and the West Indies south through Central America to northern Argentina. Plants grow in dry and moist forests, savannas, and coastal scrub. Several species are widely planted far beyond their native range as ornamental trees.Suggested Uses
Grown as flowering street, park, and shade trees and as specimens in tropical and subtropical gardens. The seasonal bloom on bare branches is used for color in parks and avenues. Smaller species are grown as flowering shrubs or patio trees in frost-free climates.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 100'
Width/Spread10' - 50'
Bloom Information
Flowering is concentrated in late winter and spring, often on bare branches before the leaves return, though some species bloom intermittently through the year. The display lasts a few weeks per flush, sometimes with several flushes. Bloom is triggered by dry spells followed by rain in seasonal climates.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
pink, rose, white, or pale yellowFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
