Jacaranda mimosaefolia – Jacaranda

Jacaranda mimosaefolia, commonly known as Jacaranda or Blue Jacaranda, is a fast-growing tree with a wide, open canopy and soft, fern-like green leaves. In late spring and early summer, it produces large clusters of mauve-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that give the tree its unique seasonal look. Its broad canopy makes Jacaranda a great choice for a specimen tree or for providing summer shade.

Jacaranda mimosaefolia (Blue Jacaranda) in New Zealand

Jacaranda mimosaefolia grows best in the warmer areas of New Zealand, such as the Bay of Plenty, where it can enjoy a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Young trees need protection from frost while they are getting established. In warm places, Jacaranda often keeps most of its leaves, but in cooler areas it can lose them in late winter before new growth and flowers appear in spring. Its wide canopy makes it a good fit for larger gardens, lawns, parks, and open spaces where it can stand out and provide shade.

Jacaranda mimosaefolia size, spacing, and growth rate

Jacaranda mimosaefolia grows quickly and can reach about 7m tall and 5m wide in 10 years, forming a broad, spreading canopy as it matures. Plant it in a spot with plenty of open space, away from buildings and other trees if you can. Giving the canopy room to grow helps Jacaranda develop its signature shape, making it a great specimen or shade tree.