Jacaranda Tree: A Mesmerizing Tree That Paints the Sky with Lavender Blooms

Plant Care

Even though Jacaranda trees have a reputation for being low-maintenance, they really do best when given the right care. Their vivid purple blossoms require the right light, soil and water to thrive. Set these conditions and your Jacaranda will reward you with glorious blooms season after season. So let’s take a look at the basics of Jacaranda care.

Light

Jacaranda trees are sunholics and need full sun to do well. They need a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily in order to blossom to their fullest potential. Without adequate sunlight, they can become leggy and sparse on the flowering front, constraining their bright show. Grow towards a sunny area to make them happy.

Soil

The Jacaranda prefers well-draining, somewhat acidic soil, but it is adaptable to different types of soil. Dark, loamy soil is great for root development but waterlogged ones can lead to root rot. Ensure your soil holds moisture but is not saturated for optimal results. Adding organic compost promotes soil structure and fertility.

Watering

Jacarandas require regular watering, particularly in their growing season. Water thoroughly once a week, so that the soil is moist, but not wet. In dry climes, increase watering frequency in hot months. Be careful not to overwater, though, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Best results will come when the soil dries a bit between waterings.

Pruning

Jacaranda tree needs pruning to retain its shape as well as for healthy growth. Though it’s a low-maintenance tree overall, removing dead or damaged wood can help prevent disease and encourage stronger branches. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts.

Begin by cutting dead or diseased branches back to their base. A tree can be shaped by removing branches that are too close and overcrowded. And always use clean, sharp pruning tools to reduce the spread of disease. Jacarandas grow with a graceful, open canopy by nature, so don’t do heavy pruning to force them to conform to a certain shape. Regular pruning also prevents your tree from outgrowing its space or becoming too unruly.

Propagating

Most common and reliable way to propagate Jacaranda trees is by seeds. Seed propagation is the best way to obtain new plants, although they can also be propagated through cuttings.

To start Jacaranda from seed:

• Harvest seeds from the tree when they are ripe. 
• Soak the seeds overnight and then plant them in a well-draining potting mix. 
• Plant the seeds approximately ½ inch deep in the soil. 
• Water soil regularly to keep it evenly moist and set pots in a warm place with indirect sunlight. 

Seeds usually germinate from 3-4 weeks. Once they are big enough, the seedlings are then seeded into the ground or known to other bigger pots.

Growing in Pots

If you’re short on space or if you want to grow a smaller, portable version of the Jacaranda, try it in a large pot. If you’re planting Jacaranda trees in containers, select one that’s at least 24 inches wide to give the roots plenty of room. The roots of the tree need space to grow, so ensure that the container gives enough room to avoid compacting roots.

• Pick a large pot: At least 24 inches wide and deep.
• Use well-draining soil: A mixture that retains some moisture but has very good drainage.
• Water consistently: Check soil moisture and water, when it feels dry to your touch.
• Find a sunny spot: Position the pot in a spot that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day.
• Fertilize during growing season: In spring and summer, use a balanced fertilizer every month.

Use a well-draining potting mix that still maintains some moisture, and be sure the container has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. Water often (especially in summer) and let your tree have lots of sunlight. Whereas Jacarandas can grow large in the ground, it important to know that in a pot they will remain more compact and can be moved as desired — so ideal for patios or smaller gardens.

Overwintering

Jacaranda trees do not thrive and require protection in frost-prone areas. If you have Jacaranda in your garden, it can also go outdoors, though if you live in a frost zone, be sure to bring the potted plant indoors over winter or cover it with frost cloth if in the ground.

• For potted Jacarandas: When the frost is expected, take them inside.
• Cover it with a frost cloth: Shield the tree from the freezing temperatures.
• Mulch around the base: For in-ground trees, add a layer of mulch to insulate the roots.
• Find a safe spot for pots: If you have pots outside, move them to a warm, sheltered location out of the wind.

Most types of Jacarandas are not cold tolerant and can be negatively impacted when temperatures approach freezing. If your tree’s in the ground, you can also protect the roots by adding a thick layer of mulch at its base. In regions with extreme winter conditions, it is wise to plant Jacarandas in containers that can be moved to a protected area during the colder months.

Blooming

The most popular characteristic of jacaranda trees is their gorgeous flower bloom, which most often takes place in the late spring time to early summer. You will get a profusion of bright purple or lavender trumpet-like blooms that blanket the entire tree and take your breath away.

When in bloom, the Jacaranda’s branches are nearly fully covered with flowers, so it appears as if the tree has been draped in a splendid, purple haze. The flowering season is quite limited, but the view is impressive. To encourage blooms, make sure the tree gets plenty of sun and is well-watered during its growing season. In ideal conditions, a Jacaranda tree can bloom for several weeks, with flowers gradually falling to the ground and creating a beautiful carpet of purple beneath the tree.

Common Issues

Jacaranda trees, no matter how beautiful they are, can suffer from a few common problems, three in particular. These Issues, though minor, still should be corrected for the sake of your tree's health.

• Root rot: Caused by excessive moisture or poor drainage, root rot can damage or kill the tree. Make sure the soil drains well, and don’t water too often.
• Pests: Scale insects or aphids that can damage leaves and stunt growth may be attracted to Jacaranda trees. Check your tree frequently for infestations, and if any are found, use insecticidal soap to treat.
• Fungal infections: Too much water, too much humidity — both can spawn fungal issues. Provide good air circulation around the tree and make sure not to wet the foliage when watering.
• Frost damage: Jacaranda trees may be damaged in cooler climates if they encounter freezing temperatures. Just make sure to cover or bring your tree inside during the winter months.