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Tecoma stans (Yellow Bells)
Tecoma stans, commonly known as Yellow Bells, Yellow Elder, or Trumpetbush, is a vibrant, fast-growing shrub or small tree celebrated for its brilliant yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers. Native to the Americas, it thrives in warm climates and is widely cultivated for both ornamental and practical purposes.
Botanical Overview
- Scientific Name: Tecoma stans
- Family: Bignoniaceae
- Common Names: Yellow Bells, Yellow Elder, Trumpetbush, Esperanza
- Origin: Southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean
- Growth Habit: Semi-evergreen shrub or small tree
- Height: Typically 3–6 feet in the U.S.; can reach up to 25 feet in tropical regions
Key Features
- Flowers: Bright yellow, trumpet-shaped blooms that appear in clusters from spring through fall.
- Foliage: Dark green, pinnately compound leaves with 5 to 13 serrated leaflets.
- Fruit: Long, slender seed pods containing numerous winged seeds.
- Wildlife Attraction: Highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Cultivation & Care
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun for optimal flowering.
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained soils; tolerates a range of soil types.
- Watering: Drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering.
- Pruning: Annual pruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms.
- Propagation: Easily propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Uses & Benefits
- Ornamental: Widely used in landscaping for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract pollinators.
- Medicinal: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for treating diabetes and digestive issues.
- Wood: Utilized in rustic construction, furniture making, and as firewood or charcoal.
- Cultural Significance: Designated as the official flower of the United States Virgin Islands and the floral emblem of The Bahamas.
Considerations
- Invasiveness: Can become invasive in certain regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
- Maintenance: Regular pruning is necessary to control growth and prevent unwanted spreading.