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Jacaranda mimosifolia, Jacaranda

Heaviest-flowering and fastest growth occurs in full sun. Young trees required frequent pruning in the nursery and landscape to develop strong structure. If left unpruned several co-dominant stems develop, often with included bark, and these are often poorly attacked to the trunk. Special pruning techniques are required to develop a nice looking nursery plant. Pollen causes slight allergy symptoms.

Prune to maintain a dominant leader (one main trunk) by cutting back or removing competing leaders. Do this every 3 years for the first 15-20 years after planting. Do not allow branches with included bark to grow too large because they could split from the tree. This is best accomplished by removing some secondary branches (especially those toward the edge of the canopy) along those branches with included bark in the crotch. Regularly reduce the length of low aggressive branches by making reduction cuts if these branches will be in the way later and have to be removed. This will prevent having to make large pruning wounds later because the pruned branches will grow slower. Large pruning wounds can initiate decay in the trunk and branches, and decay can advance rapidly. Perform needed pruning after flowering in spring and early summer in order to enjoy the spring flowers.

Small trees of Jacaranda can tolerate light shade and will grow quickly. They thrive in sandy, well-drained soils but should be watered during dry periods until well established. Trees cast light shade under the canopy making it easier to grow turf under the tree than under other trees with a denser canopy. Trees are tolerant of urban conditions and have performed well as street trees. Tree can be found in hardiness zone 9A in protected locations.

Trees put on one of the prettiest shows of any tropical tree. This has lead to its popularity in all tropical regions. Flower color varies from a light to a deep purple and they cover the ground for several weeks after they drop from the tree.