Pink Poui, Rosy Trumpet Tree, Pink Tecoma, Roble de Sabana, Apamate
Tabebuia rosea
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The Pink Poui is primarily an ornamental tree, providing shade and attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Its wood is valuable for construction and furniture making. Fallen leaves contribute to soil fertility. Certain cultures use the bark medicinally. There are no commonly known edible parts of this species. The tree is valued for its showy display of pink flowers, which can be used in arrangements.
Permapeople description
Tabebuia rosea, also known as pink poui, is a neotropical tree in the family Bignoniaceae that is native to Central and South America.
Botanical description
Tabebuia rosea is a deciduous tree native to Central and South America. It typically reaches a height of 30-100 feet. The trunk can grow to 3 feet in diameter. Its leaves are palmately compound, with five leaflets, each 2-8 inches long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, pink to lavender in color, and about 2-3 inches long. They appear in profusion during the dry season, before the new leaves emerge. The fruit is a long, slender capsule containing numerous winged seeds. The bark is gray and somewhat furrowed. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Companion planting
Due to its size, Tabebuia rosea may compete with smaller plants for sunlight and nutrients. It generally doesn't have any well-documented companion plants, but planting groundcovers around the base can help suppress weeds. Avoid planting near structures as the roots can be invasive.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through seeds, which should be sown soon after harvesting. Cuttings can also be used, though success rates may vary. Air layering is another option.
History and traditions
In some Central and South American cultures, Tabebuia rosea bark has been traditionally used for its purported medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, though scientific evidence is limited. The tree is a common symbol of beauty and resilience, often planted in parks and gardens. In Costa Rica, it is known as the "tree of the dry season" because it blooms during this time.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs during the dry season, usually from December to April. Seed pods mature several months after flowering. Planting is best done during the rainy season to establish the tree. Pruning is typically done after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches.