Pink Trumpet Bush

Plant Type: tree
Plant Height: 15-25 feet
Spread: 10-15 feet
Flower Color: pink
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Pink Trumpet Bush (Tabebuia heterophylla) – Add a Burst of Color to Your Arizona Landscape

The Pink Trumpet Bush, scientifically known as Tabebuia heterophylla, is an ornamental beauty from the Caribbean and Central America, perfect for adding striking color and lush foliage to warm-climate gardens. Known for its spectacular display of trumpet-shaped pink flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, this tree brings a tropical flair and vibrant wildlife appeal to landscapes in USDA zones 9b to 11.

Key Features of Pink Trumpet Bush

Growing to a manageable height of 15 to 25 feet, with a spread of 10 to 15 feet, Pink Trumpet Bush forms a rounded canopy of glossy, dark green leaves that offer year-round greenery in mild climates. Its show-stopping pink flowers emerge in clusters, often before the leaves, creating a dense, dramatic floral display that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This tree is especially valued in Arizona for its moderate drought tolerance and minimal maintenance requirements, making it ideal for water-conscious gardening.

Landscape Uses for Pink Trumpet Bush in Arizona

• Specimen Tree: With its showy blooms and compact size, Pink Trumpet Bush works beautifully as a focal point in both residential and park settings, adding a splash of pink that stands out against Arizona’s desert landscapes.

• Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: The tree’s fragrant blossoms are a magnet for pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.

• Accent Tree in Mixed Borders: Its moderate height and canopy spread make it perfect for mixed borders, adding vertical interest without overwhelming smaller plants.

Care Tips for Growing Pink Trumpet Bush in the Phoenix Valley

This tree prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil. Although moderately drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering during Arizona’s hottest months can help maintain its vibrant foliage and blooms. Pink Trumpet Bush benefits from minimal pruning to shape, making it a low-maintenance choice for busy gardeners.

Why Pink Trumpet Bush is Ideal for Arizona Gardens

The Pink Trumpet Bush offers not only showy pink blossoms but also resilience and adaptability to warm, arid climates. Its extended blooming season, combined with its ability to attract pollinators, makes it a valuable ornamental tree for Arizona gardeners seeking to add year-round beauty and color to their outdoor spaces. Whether used as a specimen or accent tree, Pink Trumpet Bush adds an exotic, eye-catching display to water-wise landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Pink Trumpet Bush

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.5)
• Spacing: Space plants 4-5 feet apart to allow for their bushy, dense growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Pink Trumpet Bush requires no staking and grows into a rounded, dense shrub with trumpet-shaped pink flowers

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Pink Trumpet Bush is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks