Blue Jacaranda, Purple Jacaranda
Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as the Blue Jacaranda plant, is a tropical looking tree that is widely planted because of its beautiful and long-lasting, blue flowers. Loose clusters of the deep blue-mauve flowers are borne across the tree through spring and summer. The dark green foliage is fern like in appearance, and in warm climates it will remain evergreen, otherwise it will be deciduous. It typically grows to 12 m tall and 8 m wide. Jacaranda mimosifolia is commonly used in avenue plantings to provide an unforgettable sight, grown as a specimen, added to a mixed planting, or included in a ‘tropical’ garden.
Suited to regions: | All regions |
Plant type: | Trees |
Height: | 12.00 m |
Spread: | 8.00 m |
Flowering time: | Spring, Summer |
Tolerances: | Hardy, Wind |
Garden uses: | Parks, Specimen |
Garden styles: | Alpine, Japanese, Tropical |
Easy to grow? | Yes |
Maintenance requirements | Low |
Growth rate | Fast |
Also known as | Blue Jacaranda, Purple Jacaranda |
Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as the Jacaranda tree, is widely valued for its stunning violet-blue spring and summer blooms, making it a popular ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and along streets. Its fern-like foliage and graceful canopy provide light, dappled shade, adding aesthetic appeal to landscapes. Beyond its decorative use, jacaranda wood is sometimes utilised in carpentry and crafting, although it is relatively soft and not widely used commercially. In some cultures, jacaranda flowers are also appreciated for their symbolic meanings, often representing rebirth or wisdom. Additionally, the tree plays a role in urban cooling by providing shade and improving air quality. While not typically used for food or medicinal purposes, jacaranda’s visual impact makes it a favourite for enhancing public spaces and residential gardens.
Jacaranda mimosifolia can be grown as a bonsai, although it is considered more challenging than traditional bonsai species due to its fast growth rate, large leaves, and sensitivity to pruning. However, with regular maintenance and proper technique, it can produce an elegant and visually striking bonsai tree. Jacaranda bonsai thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil with consistent moisture—avoid letting it dry out completely. It responds well to wiring and shaping, especially when young and flexible, but care should be taken as its branches can be brittle. Regular pruning is essential to control size, promote branching, and reduce leaf size over time. It may lose its leaves in cooler weather or under stress, but generally grows back vigorously. While flowering in bonsai form is rare due to size constraints, the delicate fern-like foliage and graceful form still make it an attractive and unique bonsai subject for experienced growers.
Jacaranda mimosifolia thrives in warm, frost-free climates and is best planted in a sunny, sheltered position with well-draining soil. It prefers deep, sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic matter but can tolerate a range of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged. Regular watering is essential during the first few years to establish a strong root system, after which the tree becomes more drought-tolerant. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove any dead or crossing branches, but avoid heavy pruning, as it can affect the natural form and reduce flowering. Jacarandas benefit from a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth and blooms. Though relatively low-maintenance, they can be messy when dropping flowers and leaves, so it’s best to avoid planting them near driveways or pools. In New Zealand, plant in areas that receive only moderate frost and be sure to protect very young trees.
Jacaranda mimosifolia has a moderate to fast growth rate, typically growing between 1 to 2 metres per year under ideal conditions. In warm, frost-free climates with full sun, well-draining soil, and regular watering during its early years, the tree establishes quickly and can reach 5–10 metres in height within 10 years, eventually maturing at around 10 to 15 metres tall. Growth may slow slightly as the tree matures, and in cooler or less favourable environments, the rate may be more moderate. Regular pruning and good care can help maintain a healthy, balanced structure during its rapid early development.
Jacaranda mimosifolia can be propagated by seed or cuttings, with seeds being the more common method due to ease and high success rates. To propagate by seed, collect mature seed pods after they dry on the tree, usually in late summer or autumn. Open the pods to extract the flat seeds, then soak them in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination. Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed mix, lightly cover them with soil, and keep them warm and moist. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. Propagation by semi-hardwood cuttings is also possible but more challenging. Take cuttings in late spring or early summer, ideally 10-15 cm long, from healthy, non-flowering shoots. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, plant in a moist, free-draining propagation mix, and keep in a warm, humid environment until roots form, which may take several weeks.
The Plant Company has the best Jacaranda mimosifolia for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your tree and plant needs and impress you with both our products and service!
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