All you need to know about growing the beautiful Jacaranda tree in the UK, in our guide.
Jacaranda mimosifolia is a spectacular tree, native to the tropical regions of Bolivia and Argentina. It bears masses of vibrant purple-blue flowers in late-spring and again in autumn, and is a popular street tree and garden specimen in warmer climates. While many people fall in love with Jacaranda tree while on holiday and want to grow it at home, its a frost-tender deciduous tree that needs a warm growing environment with a minimum temperature of 5°C. However, the dwarf grafted form, Jacaranda ‘Bonsai Blue’, makes it possible to grow Jacaranda in a pot, so you can grow it outdoors in summer and move it under cover for winter.
An unmistakable and glorious sight when in flower, Jacaranda flowers in spring and early summer, bearing many small flowers in large pyramidal clusters. Individual blooms are 3-5cm long, rich purple-blue with a white throat. Flowers are borne on the bare stems before the leaves, or just as the leaves are emerging. Leaves are bright, mid green, and divided.
Jacaranda mimosifolia reaches a height of 15m and a spread of 10m. The dwarf variety ‘Bonsai Blue’ is much more compact, with a height of 1.5m and spread of 45cm.
Hey plant lovers! I’ve been growing jacaranda trees from seeds for the past few years, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about turning these tiny seeds into gorgeous flowering trees. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced gardener, this guide will walk you through the entire process step by step.
What You Need to Know First
Before we dive in, here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
- Germination time: 2-8 weeks
- Time to first bloom: 7-14 years (yeah, it needs patience!)
- USDA zones: Best in 9-11
- Light needs: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
- Soil type: Well-draining, slightly acidic (pH 6-7.5)
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Jacaranda Seeds
1. Collecting and Preparing Seeds
First things first – you’ll need to get your hands on some jacaranda seeds Here’s how
- Wait for seed pods to turn brown and dry on the tree
- Collect pods in a paper bag (not plastic!)
- Let pods dry for 1-2 weeks until they split open
- Shake out the flat, round seeds
- Remove any floating seeds – they’re probably not viable
Pro tip: I’ve found that year-old seeds can still grow if they’ve been stored properly in a cool, dry place inside their pods!
2. Seed Treatment (Don’t Skip This!)
This step is super important for successful germination
- Soak seeds in room temperature water for 24 hours
- Make a small cut in the seed coat (this helps with germination)
- Discard any seeds that float – they’re probably duds
3. Planting the Seeds
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to plant:
Planting Depth Chart:-------------------------Soil depth: 1/4 inchContainer size: At least 1 gallonSpacing between seeds: 2-3 inches- Fill containers with rich potting mix
- Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep
- Water thoroughly but gently
- Cover pots with plastic wrap to keep moisture in
- Place in bright, indirect light
- Maintain temperature around 70°F
Caring for Jacaranda Seedlings
Once your seeds sprout (usually takes 2-8 weeks) here’s what to do
Early Care (First 2-3 Months)
- Remove plastic covering
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Thin to strongest seedlings (2 per pot max)
After 3 Months
- Move to larger pots when seedlings reach 6 inches
- Start monthly feeding with balanced fertilizer
- Gradually increase direct sunlight exposure
Common Problems & Solutions
Listen up! Here are some issues I’ve run into and how to fix them:
Yellow Leaves
- Usually means overwatering
- Solution: Let soil dry between waterings
Leggy Growth
- Not enough light
- Solution: Move closer to light source
Pest Problems
- Watch for whiteflies and aphids
- Treat with insecticidal soap if needed
Tips for Success
Here are some tricks I’ve learned the hard way:
- Don’t rush transplanting – wait 8+ months
- Use deep pots for better root development
- Protect young plants from strong winds
- Be patient – these trees grow slowly at first
Moving Outdoors
When your seedlings are ready for the great outdoors (after about 8 months):
- Choose a sunny spot with plenty of space
- Dig hole 2-3 times pot width
- Add rich, well-draining soil
- Water deeply after planting
- Mulch around base (but not touching trunk)
Long-term Care
To keep your jacaranda happy:
- Water weekly in summer, monthly in winter
- Fertilize twice yearly (spring and late summer)
- Avoid heavy pruning – it ruins the natural shape
- Clean up fallen flowers (they get slimy!)
FAQ
Q: Can I grow jacaranda indoors?
A: Yep! But they won’t flower and need lots of light.
Q: How big will it get?
A: Pretty massive – 25-50 feet tall and 15-30 feet wide.
Q: When will it bloom?
A: Patience, friend! Usually takes 7-14 years from seed.
Final Thoughts
Growing jacaranda from seeds takes time and patience, but it’s totally worth it! I started mine three years ago, and while they’re not blooming yet, watching them grow has been super rewarding. Just remember – these aren’t quick-growing plants, but the wait makes those purple blooms even more special when they finally appear.
Remember to give your tree plenty of space, sunlight, and well-draining soil, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning addition to your landscape. Good luck with your jacaranda growing journey!
Happy growing!
Note: This guide is based on my personal experience growing jacarandas in zone 10. Your results might vary depending on your climate and growing conditions.
How to grow Jacaranda
As the only Jacaranda worth growing in the UK, the dwarf variety ‘Bonsai Blue’ should be grown in a pot of well-drained, peat-free compost, keep under cover over winter in a cool but frost-free environment, and moved outside for the summer if desired. Water minimally, feed during the growing season, and prune and repot annually, in late winter or early spring.
How to plant Jacaranda
Plant Jacaranda in a pot, two to three sizes larger than the pot you bought it in. Use a soil-based peat-free John Innes no 2 potting compost, with added coarse grit or perlite to ensure sharp drainage.