Cape Honeysuckle
tecoma capensis
Also known as: ["Tecoma alba","Tecomaria capensis"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen shrub or vine native to South Africa, known for its clusters of bright orange, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom year-round in warm climates.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Tecoma |
| Botanical Name: | Tecoma capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or large container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired size and shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot regions. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with bright light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but prefers frost-free environments.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply after watering; avoid contact with foliage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or softwood cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to dieback if temperatures remain below 30°F (-1°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; water before feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTecoma capensis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTecoma capensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTecoma capensis, commonly known as Cape Honeysuckle, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tecoma capensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often does Tecoma capensis bloom?
A: It blooms year-round in warm climates, with peak flowering in late summer and fall.
Q: Does Tecoma capensis require a lot of maintenance?
A: It is relatively low maintenance, requiring occasional pruning to control growth and shape.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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