Yellow Tecoma

Yellow Tecoma Bush The Sunshine Shrub
The Yellow Tecoma, also known as Tecoma stans, Yellow Bells, Esperanza, or Trumpet Bush, is a vibrant flowering shrub that produces abundant clusters of golden-yellow trumpet-shaped flowers throughout the warmer months. Its rapid growth, drought resistance, and butterfly-attracting blooms make it a favorite in both urban and rural gardens.

Native to the Americas, this sun-loving shrub is now widely cultivated in South Asia, Africa, and Mediterranean regions for its ornamental beauty and tolerance to poor soils and heat.

🌸 General Description
Botanical name: Tecoma stans

Common names: Yellow Tecoma, Yellow Bells, Trumpet Bush, Esperanza

Plant type: Perennial flowering shrub or small tree

Height: 3 to 10 feet (can grow up to 15 feet if unpruned)

Spread: 3 to 6 feet

Leaves: Green, pinnate (feathery), serrated

Flowers: Bright yellow, trumpet-shaped, about 2–3 inches long

Fragrance: Mild to none

Blooming season: Spring to fall (longer in warm climates)

☀️ Light and Temperature Requirements
Sunlight:

Thrives in full sun (6–8 hours daily)

Partial sun is tolerated but may reduce flowering

Temperature:

Ideal: 20–35°C (68–95°F)

Hardy in USDA zones 9–11

Not frost-tolerant — may die back in cold but regrow from roots in spring

🌞 The more sun Tecoma receives, the more profusely it blooms.

💧 Watering Routine
Young plants:

Water 2–3 times per week until established

Mature plants:

Water once or twice weekly

Extremely drought-tolerant once established

💧 Always allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry out before re-watering. Avoid soggy or waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot.

🌱 Soil and Fertilizer Needs
Soil:

Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soil

Tolerates poor soils, rocky terrain, and slight salinity

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

Fertilizer:

Feed with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring

Optional feeding every 6–8 weeks during the blooming season

Over-fertilization may lead to leafy growth with fewer flowers

🌿 Add organic compost once or twice a year to improve soil quality and root strength.

✂️ Pruning and Maintenance
When to prune:

Late winter or early spring (before new growth starts)

Light pruning can be done after each bloom cycle to maintain shape

Why to prune:

Encourage bushier growth

Promote more flowers

Control size and remove dead or leggy branches

✂️ Tecoma responds well to pruning and can be shaped into a hedge, mound, or small tree.

🌿 Propagation Methods
Stem Cuttings:

Take 6–8 inch semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or early monsoon

Remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone

Plant in well-draining potting mix; keep moist and in indirect sunlight

Roots form in 3–5 weeks

Seeds:

Germinate easily in warm soil

Soak overnight before planting for quicker germination

🌱 Cuttings ensure the same flower traits, while seed-grown plants may vary.

🐛 Pests and Problems
Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract:

Aphids

Whiteflies

Spider mites (especially in dry, dusty conditions)

🛡️ Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or water sprays to manage infestations.

⚠️ Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage.

🦋 Pollinators & Wildlife
Tecoma flowers attract:

🦋 Butterflies

🐝 Bees

🌸 Hummingbirds (in some regions)

This makes it an excellent pollinator-friendly plant for eco-gardens and food forests.

🎍 Landscape and Container Uses
Great for:

Flowering hedges

Garden borders

Foundation plantings

Large containers (with pruning)

Stunning when planted in rows, clusters, or near walls and gates

🌞 Looks lovely beside bougainvillea, lantana, oleander, and plumbago.

✅ Conclusion
The Yellow Tecoma Bush is a sun-loving, vibrant, and low-maintenance shrub that adds instant brightness to any garden. With its drought resistance, fast growth, and long bloom season, it’s a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Whether you grow it as a bushy hedge, a flowering tree, or a potted patio feature, Tecoma delivers color, ease, and beauty.”