Tree
Blue jacaranda
Jacaranda mimosifolia
A warmth-loving tree with finely divided leaves and blue-violet flowers. It grows large in the ground. In containers in cool climates it is grown mainly for foliage, as flowering is rare.
- Size
- 10–15 m high · 7–10 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Frost sensitive
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- In warm climates it typically reaches 10–15 m tall and about 7–10 m wide; the crown can spread further. Allow clearance from paving for surface roots.
- Provide full sun, warmth and well-drained soil. Young trees tolerate light shade, but flowering is best in sun.
- Where winters are cold, grow it in a container. Overwinter in a bright, frost-free place with night temperatures of at least 5°C.
Why choose it
- Finely divided leaves give the canopy a light, fern-like appearance.
- Mature trees may produce blue-violet flowers in spring or early summer; timing depends on the local climate.
- It can be a striking specimen in a mild climate; container plants are valued chiefly for their foliage.
Care
- Water young trees and pots during growth. Let the compost dry slightly between waterings and reduce watering in winter.
- Train young trees to develop strong branch unions. Weak forks can split; use an arborist for work on larger trees.
- Remove seedlings outside the planted area. It is invasive in parts of Queensland and South Africa; check local guidance before planting.
Good to know
- Seed-grown trees may take many years to flower. Blooming is rare in containers in cool climates.
- It may shed leaves periodically; in warmer conditions it can be semi-evergreen. Dwarf cultivars have different dimensions from the species.