Jacaranda mimosifolia (Jacaranda Tree)

Jacaranda – A tree of great beauty and a popular choice for landscaping. With proper care and attention, it can be a breathtaking addition to any garden or landscape.

What is a Jacaranda Tree?

Jacaranda mimosifolia,  commonly known as the jacaranda, blue jacaranda, or fern tree, is a species of flowering plant native to South America, particularly Argentina and Bolivia. Today, it is found in many parts of the world.

It is a stunning ornamental tree prized for its beautiful blue-violet flowers and delicate fern-like foliage. In late spring to early summer, it is covered with a profusion of lavender-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers held in 8 in. long clusters (20 cm). The floral show is quite spectacular. In warm areas, the tree can flower at any time. The blossoms give way to flattened mahogany seedpods, which are decorative in arrangements.

The foliage of large, bright green, fern-like, and compound leaves, up to 20 in. long (50 cm), can be either semi-evergreen or deciduous, depending on the climate.

Moderately fast-growing, the Jacaranda tree features an open habit with long, upright, spreading branches forming a wide, umbrella-like canopy.

It grows up to 25-50 ft. tall (7-15 m) and 15-30 ft. wide (4-9 m) and can live up to 50 years.

What is Special about the Jacaranda Tree?

Here are some reasons why you should consider growing this striking tree:

Spectacular flowers: Jacarandas are known for their stunning and vibrant purple-blue flowers that bloom in clusters in summer, creating a breathtaking display.

Shade tree: The Jacaranda tree has a wide canopy, making them an ideal shade tree.

Low maintenance: The tree is generally low-maintenance and requires minimal pruning and care.

Drought-tolerant: Jacaranda is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Wildlife attractant: Jacarandas attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them a great addition to a garden that promotes biodiversity.

Unique tree: The Jacaranda tree is not commonly found in every region, so growing one in your garden can make it stand out and add a unique touch to your landscape.

Award: Jacaranda mimosifolia is the recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society

Historical and cultural significance: Jacaranda has a long history and cultural significance in many regions where it is grown, making it a meaningful addition to a garden that honors tradition and culture.

Growing Jacaranda Trees

Climate: The Jacaranda tree prefers warm, tropical, or subtropical climates. It is not frost tolerant and may suffer damage or even die if exposed to freezing temperatures. It is a good choice for landscapes in warm climates, USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.

Sunlight: It thrives in full sun, where it receives at least six to eight hours of sun per day.

Soil: It prefers sandy, moderately fertile, well-drained soils. It will not do well in heavy clay soils.

Water: The Jacaranda tree is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water once or twice weekly until it is established. Once established, the trees will only need water during times of extreme drought.

Uses: The Jacaranda tree makes a great specimen plant in Mediterranean gardens and containers. Its leaves and flowers can create littering issues when they drop. Do not plant your Jacaranda tree near pools, driveways, patios, or outdoor recreation areas due to the cleanup maintenance. It also makes a nice lawn, shade, or street tree. Small or young trees and those grown indoors typically do not flower.

Pruning: Jacaranda trees do not require extensive pruning. Only remove dead or damaged limbs.

Fertilizer: The tree benefits from fertilization, especially during the growing season. Feed your jacaranda tree annually with a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Propagation: Jacarandas can be propagated from seeds, but they can take several years to mature into a full-sized tree. Grafting or budding onto a rootstock is a faster way to produce a mature tree.

Pests and Diseases

Jacaranda mimosifolia has generally few serious pest or disease problems. However, there are some issues that can affect its growth and appearance.

Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant (when grown indoors), causing leaves to curl and become distorted. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Oleander leaf scorch: This bacterial disease can cause leaves to turn brown and wilt. There is no cure, and infected plants should be removed to prevent spreading to healthy plants.

Whiteflies: These small, winged insects suck the sap of the plant(when grown indoors) and can cause yellowing leaves and a sooty mold to develop. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should you not plant a jacaranda tree?

The Jacaranda tree should not be planted near power lines, buildings, or other structures as they have a tendency to grow large and can interfere with structures. They should also not be planted in areas with poor drainage or where they may be exposed to strong winds. Additionally, in areas with cold winters, jacarandas may not be suitable for planting as they are sensitive to frost and cold temperatures.

What does a jacaranda tree smell like?

Jacaranda trees have a mild, pleasant fragrance that some people describe as resembling the smell of grape soda. The scent is more noticeable when the trees are in bloom, and the flowers are at their peak.

Where do jacaranda trees grow?

Jacaranda trees are native to South America, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions of Argentina and Bolivia. However, they are now grown in many other parts of the world, including Australia, South Africa, the United States, and parts of Asia and Europe.