Hojas de Tronadora, Yellow Elder (Tecoma stans)
Regular price $19.95Native to the Americas, Yellow Elder is celebrated for its stunning clusters of bright, golden-yellow trumpet-shaped flowers that adorn its branches. These blooms not only capture attention with their vibrant color but also fill the air with a sweet, mild fragrance, creating an immersive sensory experience for any garden or landscape.
Thriving in warm climates, Yellow Elder is a resilient and low-maintenance addition to your outdoor haven. Its lush, green foliage provides an elegant backdrop to the radiant blossoms, making it an eye-catching focal point in gardens, borders, or containers.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, Yellow Elder has been traditionally valued for its medicinal properties. In various cultures, the plant has been used for its potential therapeutic benefits, believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. While it enchants with its visual appeal, Yellow Elder invites you to explore the rich tapestry of botanical history and wellness.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or a novice cultivating your green space, Yellow Elder is a delightful choice. Embrace the effortless beauty and subtle fragrances of Yellow Elder, and let this remarkable flowering shrub transform your outdoor sanctuary into a haven of natural wonder. Bring home the elegance of Yellow Elder and cultivate a garden filled with the timeless charm of golden blossoms.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Herb |
| Harvest Season | Spring to early Summer |
| Mature Size |
1-3 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture |
Prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Tolerates poor soil conditions but thrives in rich, loamy soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation |
Our Hojas de Tronador is grown from cuttings and seed, capable of harvesting within a growing season. |
Full Growing Guide
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Yellow Elder thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. The plant prefers temperatures between 70-95°F and can tolerate light frosts.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). The plant can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Yellow Elder can tolerate partial shade but will have better growth and flowering in full sun.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant young shrubs in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Space plants 3-6 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
- Container Planting: Yellow Elder can also be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year. Consistent moisture is crucial for young plants.
- Mature Plants: Once established, Yellow Elder is somewhat drought-tolerant. Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sunlight
- Full Sun: Ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and prolific flowering.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Supplement with organic matter or compost.
- Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, especially if grown in containers or poor soil.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more flowers.
- Maintenance: Yellow Elder requires minimal maintenance once established. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: Watch for signs of fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Harvesting Leaves
- When to Harvest: Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried, when the essential oils are most concentrated.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves, taking care not to damage the main stems. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and maintains the plant's shape.
