If you’re looking for bold color with almost nonstop blooms, Tecoma stans is hard to beat. Commonly known as Yellow Bells, this sun loving shrub (or small tree) is native to the Americas and thrives in warm climates where it can really show off.

The bright yellow, trumpet shaped flowers appear in clusters and can cover the plant from late spring through fall, sometimes even longer in mild climates. It’s one of those plants that just keeps going, bringing a vibrant, tropical feel to the landscape.

The foliage is a fresh green and slightly coarse, giving the plant a more relaxed, informal look. It tends to grow quickly, which makes it a great option if you want to fill space or create a flowering screen in a relatively short time.

Tecoma stans can be grown as a large shrub or trained into a small tree, depending on how it’s pruned. It works well along fences, in the background of a planting, or as a focal point where the flowers can really stand out.

It does best in full sun and prefers well drained soil. Once established, it is quite drought tolerant and handles heat with ease, though occasional watering will keep it blooming more consistently.

Given room to grow, it can reach 10 to 20 feet tall and wide, though it’s often kept smaller with pruning. It is well suited for USDA zones 8 through 11 and is hardy down to around 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. The foliage is evergreen to semi evergreen depending on climate. 

This plant has some toxicity and may cause irritation or illness if ingested, so it is best to plant with care around pets and children.

The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds.

It is generally deer resistant, though some browsing may occur. Rabbits tend to leave it alone once established.

Tecoma stans fits especially well into tropical, Mediterranean, and xeriscape garden designs, where its bright color and fast growth can be used to create impact.

With its long bloom season, vibrant flowers, and easygoing nature, this is a great plant for adding energy and color to sunny landscapes.