A dazzling floral display

The Pink Poui (Tabeduia pentaphylla) is a member of the Bignoniaceae family and originates from South America.  This tree can grow to a height of roughly 60-70 feet, but its reputation depends on a dazzling display of pink trumpet flowers, never mind that this display is brief.

For the last two weeks the Pink Poui was in bloom once again all along Brickdam, Irving Street, Waterloo Street and the other places where it has been planted.  The amazing thing was that the clusters of pink trumpet flowers which had fallen to the ground were like a carpet.  What a sight to behold!

Although planted for its beauty, it is also grown in other countries for providing shade on coffee and cocoa plantations.  It is planted throughout the Caribbean and South America as a shade tree.

It is when the Pink Poui is approximately 3-4 years old that it begins to flower.  It also comes in another colour – yellow.  The Yellow Poui when in full bloom is one of the most striking sights in the Caribbean; it sheds all its leaves before blooming. Flowering occurs at the end of the dry season.  For those who would like one, it can be grown by seeds.

Until next week, Happy Gardening.