There are about 50 species of jacaranda, a large, fine-textured, fern-like, deciduous tree. The tree is covered with 1.5-inch vibrant blue, violet and purple trumpet-like flowers from April through June. Jacarandas do not tolerate freezing conditions, and though bright, sunny locations are the preference, this tree tolerates some shade. Likewise, moisture is preferred, but limited drought conditions are tolerated. Avoid planting in soggy, over-watered areas with poor drainage.
Jacarandas can grow to 50 feet tall, and are not appropriate for small planting areas. They do, however, work well for urban and street plantings. Because they shed their leaves in the fall, jacarandas group well with evergreen shrubs to eliminate a bare appearance to the landscape.