🌼 Tabebuia – Yellow Trumpet Tree

Handroanthus chrysotrichus (formerly Tabebuia chrysotricha)

The Yellow Trumpet Tree is a stunning ornamental tree that bursts into brilliant golden-yellow blooms in spring, often before the leaves emerge. Known for its show-stopping floral display and manageable size, this tropical beauty thrives in Florida’s climate and brings a vibrant splash of color to any landscape.

🌸 Flowers & Foliage

• Foliage: Bright green, oval leaves that form a rounded canopy

• Flowers: Large clusters of trumpet-shaped, golden-yellow flowers in spring

• Form: Upright to rounded canopy, branching low when young

• Habit: Semi-deciduous — may briefly drop leaves before blooming

🌱 Plant Details

• Type: Ornamental flowering tree

• Mature Size: 20–30 ft. tall × 15–25 ft. wide

• Growth Habit: Upright, rounded crown with showy spring flowers

• Exposure: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy Florida soils

• Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 9–11 (ideal for Central & South Florida)

• Maintenance: Low; occasional pruning for shape

🌟 Why We Love It

• Spectacular spring bloom show of golden-yellow flowers

• Compact size makes it perfect for residential landscapes

• Attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds

• Adds tropical color and elegance with minimal care

🌼 Landscape Uses

• Accent tree in front or back yards

• Specimen tree near patios, driveways, or courtyards

• Street or community plantings for seasonal impact

• Mixed tropical garden designs

⚠️ Plant Notes

• Drops leaves briefly before flowering — normal and enhances bloom display

• Flowers can create light litter after bloom, but worth the show

• Not as wind-strong as oaks — best planted away from hurricane-prone open exposures

✅ Level To Leaf Tip: Plant Yellow Tabebuia where it will be most visible in spring bloom season — like near an entryway or front yard focal point. The golden flowers against bare branches create a breathtaking “living firework” show.