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Description
Tecoma Tenuiflora, also known as Yellow Elder or Trumpet Bush, is a flowering plant native to the Caribbean region and Central America. This perennial shrub belongs to the family Bignoniaceae and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive yellow flowers and ease of care. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with a fast growth rate and a long blooming period during spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Tecoma |
| Species | Tenuiflora |
Appearance
The Tecoma Tenuiflora plant has elongated, lance-shaped leaves that are medium green in color and can reach up to 10 inches long. The plant produces large clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that are bright yellow, with a diameter of 2 to 3 inches. The flowers bloom in spring and summer and have a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant produces long, slender seed pods that are up to 8 inches long and contain numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
The Tecoma Tenuiflora plant is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Tecoma Tenuiflora in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Tecoma Tenuiflora is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tecoma Tenuiflora plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally suffer from the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the plant sap and cause yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Improve drainage and reduce watering.
Habitat
The Tecoma Tenuiflora plant is native to the Caribbean region and Central America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and scrublands. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Tecoma Tenuiflora plant tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I prune my Tecoma Tenuiflora plant?
A: Prune the plant in early spring or late winter to promote bushier growth and remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I propagate Tecoma Tenuiflora from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer.
Q: How tall can the Tecoma Tenuiflora plant grow?
A: The plant can reach up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Tecoma stans (Yellow Bells)
- Tecoma capensis (Cape Honeysuckle)
- Tecoma garrocha (Spanish Shawl)
- Tecoma fulva (Orange Bells)
References
- “Tecoma stans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- “Tecoma Tenuiflora.” University of Florida. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu
- “Tecoma Tenuiflora.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com
- “Yellow Elder.” University of Florida. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu
