Tecomaria capensis (Tecoma capensis)
Common: Cape honeysuckle
Family: Bignoniaceae
Origin: Native to South Africa
Sunset Zone: 12, 13, 16, 18-24. Protected in 14, 15.
Light: Full sun to light shade
Soil: Needs good drainage.
Water: Little water once established.
Use as espalier, bank cover. Especially good on hot, steep slopes. Coarse barrier hedge. Space filler. Can scramble to 15-25 feet and 5-10 feet wide if tied to support. With hard pruning, 6-8 ft. upright shrub.
Fast growing. Informal. Fine textured foliage. Leaves divided into many glistening dark green leaflets. Brilliant orange-red, tubular blossoms, 2 inches long, grow in compact clusters October through winter. Protect from wind. Takes heat, salt air. Roots wherever branches touch the ground.
Twelve species of Ambrosia in Arizona. A similar species, Ambrosia trifida (Giant ragweed) is found in fields and along roadsides. Its abundant airborne pollen is dreaded by those who suffer with hay fever; if you have allergies, think twice about planting this ragweed relative.