How to Grow Tecoma
Tecoma
Tecoma stans
shrubTecoma, commonly known as Yellow Bells or Trumpet Bush, is a tropical to semi-tropical flowering shrub prized for its vibrant golden-yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. It blooms profusely, especially in warm seasons, and can reach 6-10 feet tall with a similar spread. The plant is popular in warm climates for ornamental landscaping and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
When should you plant Tecoma in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Tecoma timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Tecoma
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Tecoma
Around Oct 14≈ 180 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Tecoma dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 9b-11; can be grown in containers and overwintered indoors in cooler zones
Sign up free to see if Tecoma grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Tecoma timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung transplants are small with minimal branching; foliage is bright green and tender
Water regularly to establish roots; provide afternoon shade in very hot climates; stake if needed for support
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsPlant develops multiple stems and branches; dark green, elongated leaflets emerge along stems
Fertilize monthly with balanced or slightly higher phosphorus formula; prune to shape; maintain consistent moisture
Pre-flowering
2-4 weeksBranch tips begin swelling with flower buds; foliage is dense and healthy
Continue regular watering; apply low-nitrogen, higher phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooming; reduce if over-vegetating
Flowering
3-8 months (multiple flushes possible)Abundant golden-yellow trumpet flowers bloom in clusters at branch tips; blooms may appear intermittently year-round in tropics or seasonally in subtropics
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; maintain regular watering and fertilizing; ensure full sun exposure
Dormancy/Rest
2-4 monthsIn cooler zones, plant may drop some or all leaves in winter; growth slows significantly
Reduce watering; withhold fertilizer; move containers indoors in zones below 9b; prune in early spring before new growth
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase air circulation; monitor undersides of leaves
-
Mist foliage to increase humidity; apply miticide if severe; ensure adequate watering
-
Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
-
Scrape off manually; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
-
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; improve soil aeration; remove affected portions
Uses
Traditional Herbal Remedy
CulinaryIn some traditional medicine systems, particularly in Central and South America, various parts of Tecoma are used to make herbal preparations. However, use should be undertaken cautiously and with professional guidance, as toxicity concerns exist for some species. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdTecoma stans is widely cultivated as a landscape shrub in warm climates for its prolific golden-yellow flowers, drought tolerance once established, and ability to attract pollinators. It serves as a focal point or hedge plant in tropical and subtropical gardens. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe bright trumpet flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, making Tecoma an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. The plant provides reliable nectar sources, especially during warmer months. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftFresh Tecoma flowers are vibrant and long-lasting in floral arrangements, adding tropical color and texture to bouquets and centerpieces. [source]
Phytochemical Compounds
MedicinalResearch has identified various phytochemical compounds in Tecoma species with potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, though clinical applications remain under investigation. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Tecoma is grown for ornamental flowers and foliage, not harvest. Cut flowers can be harvested for arrangements when blooms are fully open. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape plant and remove dead wood; light pruning during growing season encourages bushier growth.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Tecoma stans is the national flower of the Bahamas and appears on their coat of arms, symbolizing strength and beauty.
- 🌱 The plant is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for water-wise landscaping in arid and semi-arid regions.
- 🌱 In some regions, Tecoma is considered invasive due to its prolific seeding and vigorous growth, so check local regulations before planting.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Tecoma planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Tecoma seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Tecoma timeline →