Cape Honeysuckle
Tecoma capensis
Orange Jubilee
About this plant
Tecoma capensis, commonly known as Cape Honeysuckle, is a vibrant flowering shrub with bright orange trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is popular in gardens for its long blooming season and ability to cover fences or walls. Native to South Africa, it is often used as an ornamental plant in warm climates and can also serve as a hedge or ground cover.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Tecoma
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in warm regions worldwide, including parts of Africa, Australia, the southern United States, and Mediterranean climates.
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
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy 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 the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flower production.
Tecoma capensis is a tough and fast-growing shrub that thrives in sunny spots. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages more flowers. It requires moderate watering and is generally low-maintenance.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–fall
Bright orange trumpet-shaped flowers, dense green foliage, and a bushy form that can be trained as a hedge or climber.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Generally non-toxic but avoid ingestion by pets and children. Skin contact may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Tecoma capensis may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen. People with pollen allergies might experience sneezing or itchy eyes when near the plant. To reduce exposure, keep the plant trimmed and avoid handling it during peak flowering.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot, and poor drainage may cause fungal issues. In low light, the plant may produce fewer flowers. Occasionally, pests like aphids or spider mites can appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental plant for gardens, hedges, and attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
Notes
Prune after flowering to keep the plant compact and encourage new blooms. It can be grown indoors in a bright spot but flowers best outdoors. Protect from frost as it is sensitive to cold temperatures.