The Jacaranda is a breathtaking ornamental tree known for its clusters of violet-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that cover its airy canopy in vibrant color. Native to South America and well-suited to Trinidad’s tropical climate, it is prized for both its striking floral display and elegant fern-like foliage.
Jacarandas can reach impressive heights of 25–40 ft when left unpruned, but they can also be kept from 10 ft tallthrough regular pruning — making them versatile for gardens, patios, and smaller landscapes. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the beauty of a Jacaranda whether as a grand shade tree or a compact flowering feature.
Key Features
Ornamental tree with feathery, fern-like foliage
Height: 10 ft (pruned) up to 25–40 ft (unpruned mature size)
Striking violet-blue flowers, often blooming late dry season into early rains
Creates dappled shade, perfect for landscapes, driveways, and patios
Suitable for both open spaces and managed smaller gardens
Jacaranda
Light
-
Prefers full sun for best flowering.
-
Can tolerate partial sun but may flower less.
Watering
-
Water young trees regularly until established.
-
Once mature, Jacarandas are moderately drought-tolerant but benefit from watering during long dry spells.
Soil
-
Grows best in well-drained, sandy to loamy soil.
-
Avoid heavy clay soils prone to waterlogging.
Growth
-
Fast-growing when young, slowing as it matures.
-
Can be pruned to shape but usually develops a wide-spreading canopy naturally.
-
Roots can spread — plant at least 15–20 ft away from buildings, walls, or pipes.
Maintenance
-
Remove dead or weak branches to maintain shape and strength.
-
Fallen flowers can create a colorful carpet, but they may be slippery on driveways or patios — best planted in open spaces.
-
Generally pest and disease resistant in tropical climates.
-
Availability is currently limited to medium-sized plants in 1-gallon (6") pots. Adult plants are shown for reference only.
