Tecoma stans (Yellow Bells)

A fast and vigorous grower, Tecoma stans (Yellow Bells) is a showy semi-evergreen shrub or small tree with long droopy branches boasting brilliant clusters of bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. Blooming continuously from spring to frost (all year in warm weather climates), the slightly fragrant blossoms attract butterflies and hummingbirds. They contrast nicely against the foliage of odd pinnate bright green leaves adorned with toothed leaflets. The flowers are followed by narrow bean-like seed pods, 8 in. long (20 cm), which dangle from the shrub like Christmas ornaments and are conspicuous in the fall. Prized for its heat and drought tolerance, as well as its spectacular floral display, Tecoma stans has become a popular landscaping plant. It is most often used as a specimen or mixed into a shrub border.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 10-25 ft. (3-8 m) tall and 10-20 ft. wide (3-6 m) – but they can be kept about 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240 cm).
• Easily grown in fertile, organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Best flower production in full sun. Best with regular irrigation that allows enough time for the plant to dry out between waterings. Drought tolerant once established. Fertilize in spring, summer, and autumn.
• Great as a specimen or massed, in shrub borders or containers.
• Virtually disease free and pest free.
• Prune and pinch spent flowers and pods to promote blooming and bushiness.
• Plants grow easily from seed and can also be propagated from cuttings. Seedlings are easily transplanted and will bloom within two years.
• Native to the West Indies, Texas, New Mexico, Florida, and Mexico to South America.