Pink Trumpet Tree
tabebuia heterophylla
Also known as: ["Pink Poui","West Indian Trumpet Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its showy pink trumpet-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Tabebuia |
| Botanical Name: | Tabebuia heterophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- 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, after flowering or in late winter/early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize before new growth emerges; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; water lightly after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (75–80°F / 24–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage bushiness, and removal of deadwood.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage flowering and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; prolonged exposure can cause dieback.
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch for ground plants; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; water after application; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring. Apply a light dose monthly during growing season, skipping winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTabebuia heterophylla is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTabebuia heterophylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTabebuia heterophylla is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Pink Trumpet Tree require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How tall does the Pink Trumpet Tree grow?
A: It can reach heights of 20–30 meters (65–100 feet) in ideal conditions.
Q: When does it bloom?
A: It typically blooms in late winter to early spring, producing vibrant pink flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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