Black poui
Jacaranda mimosifolia · Bignoniaceae
📷 Kahuroa · Public domain
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around black poui and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Jacaranda mimosifolia
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Type
- Medium to large-sized tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous, finely divided and airy
- Flowering
- May to July, spectacular blue-mauve flowers
- Mature size
- 12 to 15 m tall
- Growth rate
- Fast to moderate
- Hardiness
- Tender, tropical and subtropical zones
- Origin
- South America (Brazil, Argentina)
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Jacaranda needs consistent warmth and maximum sunlight to flower: outdoors year-round in Mediterranean coastal or tropical zones, in a cold greenhouse elsewhere. Water regularly during growth (April-September), very sparingly in winter.
The common mistake
Planting it in partial shade or in cold regions where flowering fails systematically: these magnificent blue-violet flowers need a minimum of 25°C from April to July.
The pro's trick
In temperate climates, grow it in a large movable pot in a cold greenhouse over winter, outdoors in full sun May-September: you'll get rare flowering in May-June.
Care
Light exposure
Your jacaranda demands maximum light to ensure abundant, generous flowering. Place it in full sun, sheltered from strong winds that could damage its delicate foliage. This intensive exposure also promotes the tree's elegant, upright habit.
Watering
Water regularly after planting and during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but well-drained. Once established, the tree tolerates moderate dry periods. Reduce watering in winter, the tree's dormant season.
Soil
Your jacaranda thrives in fertile, well-drained soil that's slightly acidic. Adding potting soil or compost at planting time facilitates rooting. Avoid compacted soils and areas with permanent waterlogging.
Fertilizing
Feed the young tree in spring and summer with balanced fertilizer to promote growth. Once mature, fertilizer applications can be reduced, unless the soil is poor. Opt for light, regular feeding rather than heavy doses.
Pruning and structure
Prune young jacaranda lightly to shape its silhouette and encourage harmonious growth. On mature trees, remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Severe pruning is generally unnecessary and may compromise flowering.
Diseases and pests
Your jacaranda is relatively disease-resistant with proper care. Watch for pest attacks in hot, humid climates and root rot in poorly drained soils. Good air circulation reduces the risk of fungal infections.
Did you know?
The blue jacaranda has become an emblematic symbol of cities with favorable climates, particularly in South Africa, Australia, and the Mediterranean basin, where its masses of mauve flowers create unforgettable floral displays in early summer. In South America, its hard, precious wood was long harvested for joinery and musical instruments, thanks to its density and beautiful color.
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.