Hojas de Tronadora, Yellow Elder (Tecoma stans)
Regular price $19.95Bright and Medicinal Shrub
Common Names: Yellow Elder, Hojas de Tronadora, Trumpetbush, Yellow Trumpetbush, Ginger-Thomas, Esperanza, Tronadora
Family: Bignoniaceae
Origin: Americas (native to Southern United States, Mexico, Central and South America)
Yellow Elder (Tecoma stans), also known as Hojas de Tronadora or Trumpetbush, is a vibrant flowering shrub known for its clusters of bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers. It’s celebrated for both its ornamental beauty and medicinal properties. The plant thrives in warm climates, where it adds a burst of color to gardens, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. In traditional herbal medicine, the leaves of Tecoma stans, known as "Hojas de Tronadora," are used to help manage blood sugar levels and treat respiratory conditions. Easy to grow and care for, Yellow Elder is a resilient and fast-growing plant that can enhance any landscape or garden.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Flowers: Yellow Elder produces clusters of trumpet-shaped, bright yellow flowers that bloom throughout much of the year, particularly in warmer climates. The flowers attract pollinators like hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Foliage: The plant has green, lance-shaped leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers. In traditional medicine, these leaves (Hojas de Tronadora) are used for various health treatments.
Growth Habit: This fast-growing, multi-branched shrub can reach up to 10-20 feet tall, though it can be pruned to maintain a more compact size. It can also be grown as a small tree in tropical and subtropical gardens.
Medicinal and Ornamental Uses
Yellow Elder is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking yellow flowers and fast growth, making it perfect for use as a hedge or accent shrub. In traditional medicine, Hojas de Tronadora are used in herbal teas and remedies to support healthy blood sugar levels and to treat symptoms of diabetes. The leaves are also used to alleviate respiratory issues and digestive discomfort.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Herb |
| Harvest Season | Spring to early Summer |
| Mature Size |
1-3 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture |
Prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Tolerates poor soil conditions but thrives in rich, loamy soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation |
Our Hojas de Tronador is grown from cuttings and seed, capable of harvesting within a growing season. |
Full Growing Guide
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Yellow Elder thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. The plant prefers temperatures between 70-95°F and can tolerate light frosts.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). The plant can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Yellow Elder can tolerate partial shade but will have better growth and flowering in full sun.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant young shrubs in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Space plants 3-6 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
- Container Planting: Yellow Elder can also be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year. Consistent moisture is crucial for young plants.
- Mature Plants: Once established, Yellow Elder is somewhat drought-tolerant. Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sunlight
- Full Sun: Ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and prolific flowering.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Supplement with organic matter or compost.
- Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, especially if grown in containers or poor soil.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more flowers.
- Maintenance: Yellow Elder requires minimal maintenance once established. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: Watch for signs of fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Harvesting Leaves
- When to Harvest: Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried, when the essential oils are most concentrated.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves, taking care not to damage the main stems. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and maintains the plant's shape.
