Tecoma is a genus of shrubs and small trees in the family Bignoniaceae (the trumpet vine family), placed in the order Lamiales. The genus contains approximately 7–14 species depending on circumscription, with most authorities recognising around a dozen. Species are characterised by their striking tubular flowers — typically yellow, orange, or pink — and opposite, pinnately compound leaves. The common name "Trumpetbush" reflects the flared, trumpet-shaped corolla shared across the genus.
The majority of Tecoma species are native to the Americas, with a natural range stretching from the extreme southern United States south through Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean Antilles, continuing along the Andes to northern Argentina. Two species are native to Africa. The best-known member, Tecoma stans (yellow trumpetbush), is widespread across the American tropics and subtropics and has been widely cultivated and naturalised throughout the tropics worldwide. In Malaysia and parts of Southeast Asia it has become a familiar ornamental, locally nicknamed "Malaysia Sakura" for its showy pink-flowered forms that resemble cherry blossoms.
Members of Bignoniaceae are predominantly woody plants, and Tecoma fits this pattern as fast-growing, sun-loving shrubs or small trees reaching 2–10 metres tall depending on species. The generic name derives from the Nahuatl word tecomaxochitl, used by indigenous peoples of Mexico for tubular-flowered plants, and was formalised in botanical nomenclature to encompass this group within Bignoniaceae.
Etymology
The name Tecoma is derived from the Nahuatl word tecomaxochitl, a term applied by the indigenous peoples of Mexico to plants bearing tubular flowers. The genus was assigned this name in botanical usage to reflect that heritage, and members are commonly called "trumpetbushes" in English for their distinctive trumpet-shaped blooms.
Distribution
Tecoma is native to the Americas, ranging from the extreme southern United States through Mexico, Central America, and the Antilles, and extending along Andean South America to northern Argentina. Two species are native to Africa. Tecoma stans in particular has been widely introduced across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, and has naturalised extensively in parts of Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa.
Cultivation
Tecoma species, especially Tecoma stans, are popular ornamentals in tropical and subtropical gardens worldwide. They are fast-growing, drought-tolerant once established, and valued for their prolific, brightly coloured tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Most species prefer full sun and well-drained soils. In frost-free climates they may be grown as large shrubs or small trees; in cooler regions they are sometimes grown as container plants.
