Handroanthus ochraceus
Handroanthus ochraceus · Bignoniaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around handroanthus ochraceus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Yellow Ipe, Golden Wood
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (bright yellow)
- Mature size
- 15 to 25 m in height
- Growth
- Moderate to slow
- Hardiness
- Tropical and subtropical climate (0°C minimum)
- Origin
- South America (Brazil, Peru)
- Soil type
- Well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic
Care
Exposure
Place this tree in full sun to encourage generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade but offers better floral display in direct sunlight. Avoid overly windy locations that can damage the foliage.
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during dormancy (dry season). Once established, yellow ipe tolerates dry periods better thanks to its deep root system.
Soil and drainage
Prefer fertile, well-structured and well-draining soil. Adding organic matter (compost) at planting encourages establishment. Avoid compacted soils or those constantly waterlogged, which cause root rot.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer to support growth. Gradual nutrient supply is preferable to large doses. Reduce fertilization late in the season to avoid stimulating new growth before dormancy.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the silhouette and remove dead or poorly oriented wood. Avoid severe pruning that weakens the tree. Annual cleaning pruning is usually sufficient to maintain good structure.
Pests and diseases
This tree is generally resistant. Watch for wood-boring insects or scale insects under water stress conditions. Good drainage and adequate aeration prevent most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Yellow ipe is renowned for its extremely dense and durable wood, once heavily harvested for construction and furniture. Its name "ipé" comes from Tupi, an indigenous language of Brazil. During flowering, its massive golden-yellow flowers attract pollinators and illuminate the tropical landscape.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.