Jacaranda mimosifolia – Blue Jacaranda
Long-lasting clusters of vibrant purple-blue flowers in early summer.
Habit:
Medium-sized tree growing up to 20M. This is an upright tree when young, spreading with age to produce a lovely open crown. It tolerates some shade but only flowers well in full sun. The compound pinnate leaves resemble Mimosa, hence the specific name.
Origins:
J. mimosifolia is native to the Amazon basin of central South America. It likes moisture in the soil but does not tolerate soggy conditions. It is not at all salt tolerant, indeed the most Jacaranda-filled city on the planet is probably Pretoria. Otherwise known as The Jacaranda City, this is some 400km from the sea and over 4,000 ft above sea level.
Soil / Aspect:
To survive Jacaranda needs to be grown in a virtually frost-free location. Mature trees will stand short periods (a few hours) below zero, but it is not what they want. It has been planted so widely around the world that it has proven itself as a reliable municipal planting in a range of soils and climates. Indeed, it is regarded as invasive in some parts of South Africa and Australia.
Maintenance:
This plant suffers from no significant pests or diseases. Once established it has a reasonable claim to being the most beautiful shade tree on the planet. However, its ultimate spread means this is not a plant for a small garden. Attempting to prune it tends to generate vertical suckers that ruin the shape.