Common Name: Cape Honeysuckle
Characteristics: Tecoma capensis is a sprawling, vining plant that spreads by runners, with foliage consisting of glossy, dark green leaves. The compound leaves are divided pinnately, with each leaflet reaching up to six inches long. The leaflets are broadly acuminated, and make up the dense foliage. From late fall to winter, cape honeysuckle blooms bright orange flowers with purple anthers that are brighter in winter months, while the leaves stay green all year long. The shrub-like vine can grow 10 to 15 feet wide, and 15 to 25 feet high
While the flowers are blooming, its brilliant orange color often attract humming birds, butterflies and sometimes bees
Geographic Origin: Southern Africa
Natural History: Cape honeysuckle is native to tropical southern Africa, but is used as an ornamental plant in many regions throughout the world. T. capensis is considered invasive in countries such as Cuba, Australia, and New Zealand
Cultivation Notes: T. capensis is a semi-hardy plant, with a threshold of 28oF. It should be planted against a south or west facing wall in order to prevent frost damage. Moderate water usage is required, and it should be watered once to twice a month with well drained soil. To improve bloom hardiness, it is best to keep the plant somewhat dryer than normal. Cape honeysuckle thrives in heat, requires full sun exposure, and can tolerate some drought and hot wind
Ethnobotany: There are many traditional medicinal compounds that derive from the bark and leaves known to relieve or treat pain, sleeplessness, fevers, bronchitis, and diarrhea to name a few
Height: 16 – 20 feet
Width: 11 – 15 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate Growing
Grow Season: Summer
Flower Season: Winter
Color: Orange
Function: Screen
Spread: Non-spreading
Allergen: Non-allergenic
Invasive: Benign
Toxicity: Benign
Hardy: Semi-hardy
Water Use: Moderate Water Use
Plants of Wade Rd 