Yellow Bells
Tecoma stans
A fast-growing tropical shrub producing brilliant, fragrant, bell-shaped yellow flowers. Official flower of the U.S. Virgin Islands and beloved for its long blooming season.
Bignoniaceae (Trumpet vine family)
Late spring through fall (April-November), peak in fall; some color year-round in warm climates
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: yellow bells flowers and yellow bells esperanzas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The name "Esperanza" means "hope" in Spanish, reflecting the plant's cheerful appearance and ability to thrive in harsh desert conditions. It's the official flower of the U.S. Virgin Islands. In xeriscape design, it represents sustainable beauty and adaptation to arid environments.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6-8+ hours) for best flowering and growth
Water
Drought-tolerant once established; water when soil dries out; prefers dry spells between watering
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Sandy, Loam, Neutral to alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring after frost danger passes
Prune in early spring to control shape and size
Can be trained to single trunk or multi-stemmed shrub
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Hardy to zone 8; may die back in winter but regrows from roots
Somewhat weedy growth requires regular pruning
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen shrub or small tree
- Container and patio plantings
- Street tree (under power lines)
- Parking lot islands and medians
- Xeriscape and desert gardens
- Hummingbird and pollinator gardens
Traditional Uses
- Traditional medicinal use for stomach pains and as a diuretic
- Contains bioactive compounds studied for diabetes management
- Stems used in traditional basketry
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Bells
Is yellow bells the same as esperanza?
Yes, Yellow Bells and Esperanza are the same plant (Tecoma stans). "Esperanza" means "hope" in Spanish and is a popular name in the Southwest.
Do hummingbirds like yellow bells?
Yes, Yellow Bells are excellent for attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. The trumpet-shaped flowers are perfectly designed for hummingbird pollination.
Is Tecoma stans invasive?
Tecoma stans is considered invasive in some warm regions like Hawaii and southern Florida, where it can self-seed readily. In cooler climates, it's well-behaved.
How cold hardy is yellow bells?
Yellow Bells is hardy to zone 8 and can tolerate temperatures down to 20-28°F. It may die back to the ground in cold winters but typically regrows from the roots.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Yellow Bells Flower
Tecoma stans
Yellow Bells is a vigorous, sun-loving tropical shrub or small tree producing abundant clusters of cheerful, bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers almost year-round in warm climates. It is the national flower of the United States Virgin Islands and one of the most reliably floriferous plants for hot, sunny gardens worldwide.
Yellow Bells Esperanza
Tecoma stans
Yellow bells (esperanza) is a fast-growing tropical shrub native to the Americas, celebrated for its clusters of vivid golden trumpet-shaped flowers and its Spanish name meaning "hope."
Billy Buttons
Craspedia uniflora
Billy Buttons are distinctive Australian wildflowers with bright yellow spherical flower heads on long stems, symbolizing optimism, resilience, and outback spirit.