Jacaranda
A blooming jacaranda is a magnificent sight, with its purple spectacle adorning not only the tree but also its surroundings.
A tree so beautiful that it became popularized here long ago when it was used for marketing new housing developments, it’s hard to believe this ubiquitous tree is not a native, but from South America.
Botanical name: Jacaranda mimosifolia
Other names: Jacaranda procera, purple jacaranda
Blooming jacaranda
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Jacaranda Appearance
Jacaranda is a beautiful ornamental tree that grows quickly to about 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. Deciduous. Open and rounded growth habit.
Rough, textured dark gray bark and trunk.
Small, light green leaflets grow in pairs on a leaf that is about a foot long.
Blooms numerous purple flowers in profusion that create a spectacle in spring to summer. The flowers are tiny and have a tubular shape. Jacaranda is part of the trumpet vine family.
Followed by small and flat seed pods.
Jacaranda Landscaping Tips
Grows and establishes itself quickly.
Quick growth also entails weaker branches. Keep the tree pruned, especially when it is young, to develop a strong trunk and branch system. The best time for heavy pruning is in the wintertime when the branches have little to no leaves. Remove excessive branches that can weaken the tree.
When in bloom, it creates a purple carpet of flowers on the ground. Great candidate for yards where flower litter is not an issue. Not a good candidate for planting near pools or car parking areas.
Attracts pollinators, including bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
Drops leaves during drought and cold weather.
Heat and drought-tolerant once mature.
Jacaranda Origin
Jacaranda mimosifolia is from warm regions in South America.
Jacaranda Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is moderately fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures as low as 15 degrees for a short period.
Water: Apply occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use a moisture meter or soil probe to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs area is ok.
Jacaranda Problems
Jacaranda mimosifolia leaves
Pests: Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions. Pests include spider mites. Control the infestation as soon as it’s discovered. Some options are horticultural oil applied several days apart, as well as insecticidal soap combined with hydrogen peroxide.
Whenever using any pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, weak branch growth, leaf drop
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin, leaf drop
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring, lack of flowers
Jacaranda Propagation
Obtain seeds from the seed pods and plant in moist soil.
FAQ
How much does a Jacaranda tree cost?
At our nursery, a jacaranda costs $120 for a 15-gallon container, $250 for a 24-inch box, $750 for a 36-inch box, and $2,500 for a 48-inch box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How quickly does a jacaranda tree grow?
Jacarandas can grow 5-10 feet a year given optimal conditions.
Are jacarandas drought-tolerant?
Jacarandas are drought tolerant once mature. However, they look full and lush with regular watering.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 50 feet x 30 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Purple |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Summer |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Moderate |
| GROWTH RATE | Fast |
| HARDINESS | 15º F, USDA Zone 8 |
| PRUNING | As Needed |