Jacaranda acutifolia
Common Names: jacaranda
Family: Bignoniaceae (bignonia Family)
tree Fast Growing Easy to grow - great for beginners! Flowers
The jacaranda is a small tree that can grow to 50 ft (15 m) in
height and about half that in width.
Description
The jacaranda is a large deciduous tree with fine-textured,
fern-like pinnate leaves. Young trees are upright but assume an
irregular branching pattern that produces beautifully asymmetric
open crowns as the trees age. From April to June (depending on
species and location) the tree covers itself with showy trumpet
shaped flowers that are about 1.5 inches wide and are arranged in
panicles (pyramid shaped clusters) that grow at the tips of
branches.
While the individual blossom are not that large, the flower clusters
can be more than a foot long.
Location
There are about 50 species of Jacaranda, most of them native to
South America and the Caribbean basin. J. mimosifolia (nurseries
often label this tree J. acutifolia which is a synonym) is the
species most often seen in Florida are native to the Amazon River
Basin countries of Brazil, Argentina and Peru. The spectacular
Jacaranda is enjoyed as an ornamental in many near-frostless areas
all over the world.
Culture
Jacaranda prefers enriched sandy, well drained soils but is tolerant
of most soil types. This is not a salt tolerant plant.
Light: Bright sunny conditions are preferred. This tree will
tolerate some shade but will bear fewer flowers.
Moisture: Likes moisture but will tolerate some drought. Doesn't
like soggy or poorly drained situations.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 - 11.
Propagation: By seed. Selected varieties are grafted. Cutting from
half-ripened wood can also be used (treat with rooting hormone).
Usage
Most jacarandas reach very sizable proportions and are unsuitable
for small properties. Occasionally certain species or selected
varieties are available that are smaller in stature and can be
enjoyed in suburban yards and for patio plantings - check with your
nursery. Since this is a deciduous tree it is best planted among
evergreens that will hide its bareness in the winter and provide a
green backdrop for th e vibrant flowers in the spring. As mentioned
earlier, this tree is especially impressive when reflected in the
still waters of a lake or pond.
Features
The jacaranda boasts some of the most electric and intense colors
that nature has to offer - I love the vibrant blue, violets and
purples that are the hallmark of this genus. The fact that the tree
stays in bloom for more that 8 weeks makes it even more desirable.
Jacaranda are inexpensive and easily available from most nurseries
and garden centers in areas where it will grow. |
