Sparklette

Plant Type: Evergreen Flowering Shrub
Plant Height: 3-4 feet
Spread: 3-4 feet
Flower Color: Bright yellow with orange throats
Sun Exposure: Full sun

‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid: Compact Size, Showy Blooms

The ‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid (Tecoma spp.) is a compact flowering shrub that delivers nonstop color in Arizona landscapes. With clusters of trumpet-shaped golden-yellow flowers streaked with orange, this smaller-growing Tecoma is ideal for homeowners who love bold color but want a plant that stays neat and manageable. Thriving in heat and sun, ‘Sparklette’ brings tropical vibrancy with minimal care.

Key Features of ‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid

• Compact Growth: Naturally rounded and smaller than classic Yellow Bells, making it great for tighter spaces.
• Season-Long Blooms: Produces masses of bright yellow-orange trumpet flowers from spring through fall.
• Heat & Drought Tolerance: Thrives in Arizona’s full sun and hot summers with very little water once established.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with its nectar-rich blossoms.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerates sandy and rocky sites.
• Water: Regular water during establishment; low water needs once mature.
• Pruning: Trim lightly in spring to maintain compact form and encourage new blooms.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to around 20°F; may experience frost damage but usually recovers in spring.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Perfect for adding a splash of color to beds and borders.
• Foundation Shrub: Compact size makes it ideal near patios, walls, or entryways.
• Containers: Great in decorative pots where bright color is desired.
• Pollinator Gardens: Excellent for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.

Summary

The ‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid is a small but bold flowering shrub for Arizona gardens. With its compact habit, brilliant yellow-orange blooms, and drought tolerance, it’s the perfect choice for adding reliable color and wildlife appeal to low-maintenance landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering and compact growth.
Soil: Well-drained soil; thrives in sandy or rocky conditions.
Spacing: Plant 3-4 feet apart for groupings or hedges.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm soil gently.
Support: None required; naturally grows rounded and upright.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: 2-3 gallons per watering for young shrubs.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Typically 3-4 months in warm growing conditions.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days. Increase to once per week in extreme heat.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 8-12 inches from the base.
• Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 1-2 per plant.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase during heavy bloom periods or heat waves; reduce during winter.

General Watering Tips for ‘Sparklette’ Tecoma Hybrid

• Soil Check: Water when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can reduce blooming and stress the roots.
• Mulch: Use gravel or rock mulch to conserve moisture and highlight the plant’s vibrant flowers.