Bignoniaceae
Tabebuia heterophylla
Pink Trumpet Tree
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This small to medium-sized, semi-deciduous tree typically grows to 18-20 metres tall with a narrow, columnar crown and furrowed bark. It features opposite, palmately compound leaves with 3-5 variable leaflets and produces showy clusters of tubular flowers, ranging from lavender or pale magenta to nearly white, often with a yellow throat. The tree yields dark brown, cigar-like pods that contain many winged seeds; its timber is valued for flooring and boatbuilding.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, this tree thrives in full sun and on a wide range of well-drained soils, including degraded or alkaline types. It serves as an excellent shade tree or specimen plant, suitable for parks, street plantings, and larger gardens, with good salt tolerance for coastal conditions.
Growing notes
The Pink Trumpet Tree is a fast to moderate grower and, once established, exhibits high drought tolerance. Water regularly to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged during establishment; infrequent deep watering is preferred for mature trees. It requires little maintenance and is not typically bothered by pests.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: iucngisd.org, nparks.gov.sg, wikipedia.org, usda.gov, theferns.info, treeworldwholesale.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.