Evergreen Trees

Yellow Bells

Tecoma stans

Yellow bells (Tecoma stans) is an evergreen shrub or small tree with clusters of bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers; it tolerates heat and drought but is sensitive to frost.

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Attributes

Type

Shrub, evergreen

Soil

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Min. temperature

5 °C

Data: Royal Horticultural Society, Missouri Botanical Garden

Drought tolerant Evergreen Attracts pollinators

Care guide

Sun

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low

Height

2–4 m

Hardiness

Medium

Flowering

Spring–Autumn

Foliage

Evergreen

In Cyprus

Yellow bells (Tecoma stans) is an evergreen shrub or small tree from the American tropics. It flowers best in full sun and, according to NC State, tolerates heat and drought. It wants soil rich in organic matter that drains well; once well established, give it supplementary water according to soil moisture and weather, letting the soil dry out between waterings. It is sensitive to frost: in a harsh winter the top growth may die back, and NC State notes that if the roots are undamaged it regrows in spring. In frost-prone areas, suitability depends on the local microclimate, and there it is best planted in spring once the risk of cold has passed.

Uses in gardens and projects

Its bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers come in clusters over a long season; NC State gives flowering from spring until frost, and almost all year in warmer climates. They attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. It is used as a specimen or accent plant, in mixed shrub borders, on patios and in large containers, as well as on roundabouts and in hotel gardens where water is limited. NC State recommends pruning after flowering to control size and shape, and deadheading prolongs the display.

Frequently asked questions

When does yellow bells flower?: It has a long flowering season, mostly in the warm months. NC State gives spring until frost and, in warmer climates, almost all year round.
How tall does it grow?: According to NC State it is usually about 0.9–1.8 m, but in warm, frost-free conditions it can reach 3–7.5 m in height and 3–6 m in spread. Pruning after flowering keeps it in check.
Is it frost hardy?: No. It is frost-sensitive, and a harsh winter can kill it back to the ground; if the roots survive, it regrows in spring. In frost-prone areas give it a sheltered spot and assess the microclimate first.
Does it need much water?: Not much. It tolerates drought, but once established it still needs supplementary watering according to soil moisture and weather, in well-drained soil that dries out between waterings.