Golden Cape Honeysuckle (Tecomaria capensis 'Aurea')

Golden Cape Honeysuckle

Tecomaria capensis 'Aurea'

Golden foliage glows in sun, a cheerful trailing shrub. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: Golden Cape Honeysuckle.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; golden foliage color fades in deep shade
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates light frost down to 5°C; optimal growth occurs at 15–28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound pinnate leaves with glossy golden-yellow oval to lanceolate leaflets
  • Flower: Tubular orange-red blooms in dense terminal clusters; nectar-rich for pollinators
  • Stem: Woody, flexible stems that can trail freely or climb with structural support
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; increase frequency during prolonged heatwaves

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent foliage burn and reduced flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season
  • Trim overgrown stems in late winter to maintain a compact, rounded shape
  • Remove damaged, diseased, or crossing branches regularly to improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hedge, container plant, or climbing screen; attracts hummingbirds and butterflies