Guayacan (Handroanthus guayacan)

Guayacan

Handroanthus guayacan

Its golden blooms paint dry seasons with sunlit warmth. Deciduous flowering tree; common names: guayacan, lapacho tree.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun for abundant flowering; tolerates partial shade but reduces bloom production
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Watering Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply during extended dry spells, avoid waterlogging
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical/subtropical climates; sensitive to frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Palmately compound with 5–7 elliptical, glossy green leaflets; deciduous in dry periods
  • Flower: Dense clusters of bright golden-yellow trumpet-shaped blooms (5–7 cm long)
  • Stem/Bark: Gray-brown furrowed mature bark; smooth green young stems
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth that limits flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to support bloom production without odor or pest risks
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches during dormancy to maintain canopy shape
  • Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
  • Trim spent flower clusters after blooming to keep the tree tidy
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA classified as non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no documented adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with traditional South American medicinal uses for its bark extracts

Usage: Ornamental garden tree; durable wood used for furniture and crafts