The Blue Jacaranda tree ( Jacaranda mimosifolia ) is a deciduous tree that is native to Brazil. It is popular worldwide for its fern like foliage and display of blue-purple flowers through late Spring and Summer. The tree is commonly grown as an ornamental tree; for shade purposes in parks and gardens; or on roadsides to line streets; and is truly beautiful in both these applications.
More often than not; the word ‘Jacaranda’ is used to reference this particular tree alone; but this is its Genus name; that covers close to 50 other different species. The reason this tree is called the Blue Jacaranda is because there is also a white flowering variety; called ‘White Christmas’.
Other common names for the Blue Jacaranda are Brazilian Rosewood; Green Ebony; Black Poui; Fern Tree and Mimosa Leaved Jacaranda.
Suitable for Temperate, Dry, Sub-Tropical and Tropical zones.
Growth
Jacaranda mimosifolia varies greatly in height depending on the climate it is growing in. In their native area they can grow over 20 metres tall. but in temperate regions; an average of 5-10 metres is most common. They have an umbrella shaped canopy, which may spread as wide as their height.
Their leaves are bipinnate and tiny between 5-10 mm in size. The branchlets are similarly to fern fronds in appearance; which is where it gets one of its common names; the Fern Tree. These branchlets grow to a length of approximately 40-50 cm.
The tree is deciduous and in sub-tropical & tropical zones leaf drop occurs after the dry season but for a brief period only. In temperate climates however; leaf loss happens in late Autumn-Winter and the tree remains bare until the weather warms up again. The leaves are bright green in colour until they get close to falling; when they change to yellow. The flowers have a fragrant smell, are bell shaped and a blue-purple colour.
This species is tolerant to drought once it is at a mature age; but not while it is a juvenile tree. It will require regular watering whilst it is young; especially during warm, dry periods of the year. Although it is not frost tolerant; the tree will cope with short periods of cold down to approximately -5°C.
It is best to avoid pruning Jacaranda mimosifolia especially while they are young; because pruning may ruin their shape permanently! As an older tree some of their heavy branches may need removing to avoid breaking; particularly if they are close to a home or along the side of roads; where damage is possible. It is recommended that a professional arborist is hired to do this; to avoid ruining to attractive shape of the tree.
FAMILY:
Bignoniaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate to Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
0°C to 35°C / 41 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
A moist well draining sandy loam is best, it will not tolerate clay.
LOCATION:
Full Sun
HEIGHT:
5-20 metres (16-65 feet).
WIDTH:
5-20 metres (16-65 feet).
pH:
6.0-7.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial, Deciduous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low-Medium
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by bees and insects. Bisexual Flower
MATURITY:
Approximately 7 years from seed, depending on care and climate.
GERMINATION RATES:
50-86%
GERMINATION TIME:
2-3 weeks
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 90
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes, traditionally.
WEED POTENTIAL:
Jacaranda mimosifolia can grow from natural seed dispersal, which can easily be removed.
EDIBLE:
NO! Can be toxic if ingested.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Dry or Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 1 year.
FACTS ABOUT JACARANDA MIMOSIFOLIA (Blue Jacaranda)
The word ‘Jacaranda’ is used to describe fragrance, in one of South America’s dialects.
Pretoria, a city in South Africa is known for its Jacaranda trees and is often called ‘Jacaranda City’.
Right here in Australia, in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, the town of Grafton is famous for its Jacaranda lined streets and holds an annual Jacaranda Festival. The festival begins in late October. Grafton sits on the amazing Clarence River. which makes for some spectacular scenery all round.
The Jacaranda mimosifolia is considered invasive in some parts of Africa; Hawaii; Chile; and in parts of Queensland, Australia as well.
