Tecoma (Esperanza) is commonly known as trumpet flower or trumpetbush. The generic name is derived from the Aztec word tecomaxochitl, a descriptor of plants with tubular flowers. Tecoma hybrids find versatile use in many present-day California gardens. The showy blossoms attract hummingbirds from spring to fall, yet plants require little water and have high tolerance for heat.
Appearance
Tecoma is a multi-stemmed, evergreen ornamental shrub with a tropical look. Growth habit is upright and spreading, with mature plants ranging from 4-8 feet in width and height, depending on the species. Canopy is low, with clearance about 12 inches from the ground.
Masses of flowers are produced from mid-spring to mid-fall. Common shades are yellow, peach, and orange, though Mountain States Nursery has recently produced a red-flowering variety, Crimson Flare®.
Leaves
Oblong, toothed leaves are arranged in pairs on slender stalks. The shrub’s bright foliage remains evergreen throughout the year.
Blossoms
Tecoma’s trumpet-shaped flowers are produced in clusters at the ends of its branches. Their tubular shape is a natural draw for pollinators and hummingbirds. Five lobes surround the flower opening, showing off additional streaks of color.
Tecoma Hybrid Solar Flare® Esperanza (Orange Bells, Orange Trumpet Flower, Cahauto)
This hybrid variety from Mountain States Nursery produces bright tangerine flowers from scarlet flower buds. Adding to the colorful display is a striking reddish flare along the stems.
Tecoma Hybrid Crimson Flare® Esperanza (New!)
This new cultivar from Mountain States Nursery is the result of years of breeding to produce a red hue. However, flowers may bleach to pink in the heat of summer.
Soil and Water Requirements
This heat-loving plant performs well in full sun and reflected heat locations. Needs moderate to low water — an excellent choice for water-conscious gardeners.
Pruning
Pruning is simple. In late winter, after the threat of severe cold has passed, cut plants back hard. The shrubs will rejuvenate in early spring. If you’re unsure about pruning technique, come by the nursery for tips or schedule a maintenance appointment with one of our professionals to help.
Tecoma Plant Features and Uses
- Showy flowers
- Versatile use: accent, mass planting, container plantings
- Rapid growth
- High heat resistance
- Low water
- Attracts hummingbirds
- Attracts bees, butterflies
- Unattractive to deer
- Disease resistant
Tecoma varieties make a beautiful addition to any native garden. Visit the nursery and we will personally assist you in choosing your plants, or use the Plant Finder here on our web site to browse our selection before you arrive.
I am looking for 4 Esperanza trees 8 ft tall
Hi Jeff- Give us a call at the nursery to find out most up-to-date information on what we have in stock and pricing!
My Esperanza is not blooming
Hi BW,
Esperanza not blooming can be caused by several factors:
They like sunny, well-drained locations. If in a pot, make sure the roots have enough space to spread and consider replanting in a larger pot if becoming root bound. Test the soil pH- if it is acidic, amend it by adding limestone to neutralize. Phosphorus is essential for flowering- add bone meal or super phosphate. It is also suggested that stressing it a bit by not watering or feeding it may bring on the flowers. Hope this helps!
Is this really a native plant? I have heard it discribed as tropical or subtropical.
How much pruning is required. My bush has taken off since we planted it several months ago
mine went wild and took over. because of all the dead twine I removed
I would like to buy two Tecoma Solar Flare plants for shipment to Fresno, California. What size (age) is available for sale?
I’m sorry, but we don’t ship to Fresno. Just locally in the East Bay.
I recently purchased 2 gold star tacoma stans from Evergreen, in hopes of cutting off the lower limbs and turning them into trees. Did I purchase the right plant to do this?
Tecoma Gold Star is a large shrub you can prune into any shape. It will most likely continue to put out lower branches that will need pruning.