Yellow Bells
Tecoma stans
Gold Star
About this plant
Tecoma stans, commonly known as Yellow Bells, is a vibrant shrub or small tree known for its bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. It is popular in gardens for its long blooming period and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant is drought-tolerant and often used in landscaping for its cheerful color and low maintenance needs.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Tecoma
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in warm regions worldwide, native to the Americas from the southern United States to South America.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 18–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is less active.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce blooms.
Tecoma stans is a tough, fast-growing shrub that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It tolerates drought well but grows best with moderate watering. It requires little maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–fall
Bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers, green pinnate leaves, bushy form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
The plant's sap can cause mild skin irritation; avoid contact with eyes and wash skin if exposed. Not known to be toxic if ingested but not recommended for consumption.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Tecoma stans produces pollen that can cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering season. People with pollen allergies should limit exposure during this time. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in some individuals, so wearing gloves when handling is recommended.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Inadequate sunlight may cause poor flowering. Occasionally, pests like aphids or spider mites may appear but are generally manageable.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental plant for bright, long-lasting flowers in gardens and landscapes. It attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
Notes
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth. It can be grown in large containers but prefers outdoor planting in warm climates. Protect from frost as it is sensitive to cold.