Cape Honeysuckle Tecomaria capensis

The Cape honeysuckle is an evergreen, tropical, perennial shrub or vine It is a member of the trumpetvine family (Bignoniaceae). It is native to southern Africa, but is widely cultivated in warm areas around the world. The species epithet means “of the Cape,” referring to the Cape Peninsula of South Africa. 

The Cape Honeysuckle blooms in full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate sand and some clay. The soil should be moist and well-drained. Periodic pruning is necessary to improve stem/leaf density and to maintain size. Pruning is also necessary to remove any winter damage. The shrub may be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or layering.

The Cape Honeysuckle has several cultivars with flower colors ranging from yellow, apricot, orange, and red. They typically bloom from fall to spring. In warmer climates, they may bloom all year round. It is winter hardy in USDA zones 9-11. The leaves and branches will die back at temperatures of 25 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. The leaves are odd-pinnately compound with 5 to 9 leaflets. The leaflets are ovate with dentate margins. The flowers are brightly colored, trumpet-shaped, and measure 2 inches long. The flowers are arranged in clusters or racemes. The fruits are thin, long capsules that contain many seeds that are easily dispersed by the wind. The nectar of the flowers attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and honey bees. 

In the landscape, Cape Honeysuckle may be used as a grand scale groundcover, espalier, or large formal hedge. It may be best grown in a container if maintaining its size is a concern. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Odd-pinnately compound leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets
• Leaflets are green to dark green, ovate, and with dentate margins
• Showy yellow, orange, or red trumpet-shaped flowers blooming fall to spring
• Thin, elongated fruit capsules

Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: Cape Honeysuckle has no serious disease or insect problems. Spider mites or whiteflies may occur if the plant is maintained indoors.