Yellow Trumpetbush, Yellow Bells, Esperanza

tecoma stans

Also known as: ["Yellow Bells","Yellow Trumpetbush","Stinking Weed","Bella de la Noche"]

Family: Bignoniaceae Genus: Tecoma Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its vibrant yellow trumpet-shaped flowers and drought tolerance.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae
Genus: Tecoma
Botanical Name: Tecoma stans

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or large container in a sunny patio
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–45°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years for older plants.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; can be cut back significantly to rejuvenate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

Moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (65–90°F or 18–32°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; water more in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute to half strength; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity, and partial shade.

Medium

Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use fresh cuttings; keep consistently moist; provide warmth and humidity.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.

Pruning Plan

Prune to shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Choose right pot size; use fresh soil; prune roots if crowded; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in extreme heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Tecoma stans may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Tecoma stans can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Tecoma stans may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Tecoma stans is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Tecoma stans seeds or berries. While not highly toxic, the plant can cause discomfort and should be kept out of reach of cats.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep Tecoma stans out of reach of cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Tecoma stans seeds and berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from accessing the plant, especially the seeds and berries. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Tecoma stans contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and berries, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and berries. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tecoma stans toxic to pets?

A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should Tecoma stans be watered?

A: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does Tecoma stans attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Bignoniaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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