One of the showiest trees to bloom in late winter is Tabebuia impetiginosa (
tab-eh-BOO-yuh im-pet-ih-jih-NO-suh). The pink to lavender colored flowers are produced in profusion at the ends of the branches, covering the tree. Flowers are tubular with a yellow throat that turns to pink as the bloom ages.
This species grows up to 50 feet tall. Leaves are semi-deciduous and palmately compound. Most of the leaves will drop just before blooming. It is recommended for USDA Zones 9b to 11.
Tabebuia impetiginosa is native to large parts of Central and South America. It has been used medicinally by the native peoples of that region since before the time of the Incan empire. Even today, Brazilians call the tree pau d'arco, or "divine tree".
The wood of this species is one of the heaviest and most durable available, and is used extensively in the construction of decks, docks, and boardwalks.
How wonderful to see your photos ... this is one of my favourite trees. I've been moaning the damage mine suffered during cyclone Yasi recently. It had its' top completely taken off by a huge falling tree and is now looking decidedly untidy. I'm hoping it recovers enough to bloom when winter arrives. Your photos show the beautiful blooms so well.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful tree. i would love one in my garden but haven't seen them in the nurseries here. Your post reminds me I must keep looking.
ReplyDeleteHello. This tree is amazing and has the beautiful flowers. Must have a lot of space in the garden. You must have a huge garden. I think the flowers are fragrant. Yours
ReplyDeleteI am growing one of these trees that I was able to buy from a small grower who attended one of the many plant fairs held at the USF (Univ of South FLa) Botanical Garden. It is looking rather lean right now and is only a couple of years old. This Spring it had its first lovely pinkish-purple blooms and now the new leaves are sprouting. It has had to deal with freezing each of the two winters I have owned it, but it's survived thus far and I hope it likes my home as much as I like having it!
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