Yellow Bells

Esperanza, commonly called Yellow Bells, is a delightful deciduous shrub with an irregular shape, typically reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet in the US, and some southern variants can grow as tall as 9 feet! This attractive plant showcases multiple stems and slender, upright branches adorned with striking clusters of large, trumpet-like yellow flowers, providing a stunning contrast to its lance-shaped, olive-green foliage. In the fall, its long, slender pods also charmingly appear. Esperanza naturally thrives across a vast range, from south Texas to Arizona, extending southward through Mexico and Central America to northern Argentina, as well as in southern Florida and much of the Caribbean. Native varieties of the southwestern US and nearby Mexico include Tecoma stans var. angustata, which is shorter and more resilient to drought and cold compared to some tropical types found in nurseries.

Anyone fortunate enough to witness this plant in bloom will easily see why it's called Yellow Bells due to its striking yellow flowers. Unsurprisingly, it has become a favored choice for landscaping, treasured for its beauty and outstanding drought resistance.

North American native varieties of this species can typically survive winters in their natural habitat but may struggle during exceptionally harsh winters. In contrast, nursery varieties are often derived from tropical stock, which may not withstand the cold conditions in the US. Yellow Bells flourish in arid climates and are well-adapted to monsoon patterns that feature dry periods in between. They perform particularly well when these natural conditions are mimicked in landscaped areas, so feel free to let the soil dry out between waterings. These plants are equally suited for pot cultivation, provided the containers are at least 12 inches wide, making them excellent options for potted arrangements.