Stereospermum colais, the yellow snake tree, is 15–20 m tall, trunk 15–25 cm in diam, large leaves 25–50 cm; leaflets 3–6 on each side of midrib, long elliptic, 8-14 X 2.5–6 cm. Large, pale yellow, trumpet shaped flowers occur in panicles. Flowers are pale yellow, slightly curved, about 2 cm, upper lip 2-lobed, lower lip 3-lobed, tomentose at mouth, tube terete. The fruit is long, 4-angular, slightly curved, 30–70 cm, about 1 cm in diameter. This, probably, is the source of its common name, snake tree.
The yellow snake tree is resistant to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. With regard to care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they finish blooming. The yellow snake tree is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand much gardening experience.
How to keep Stereospermum Colais.
Light
The yellow snake tree grows best in places that get plenty of sunlight all day, though it can also survive with less light. Native to regions characterized by open skies, its healthiest growth depends on those conditions. A lack of sunlight can slow its development, while too much sunlight can cause stress.
Water
The Yellow Snake Tree flourishes in humid, tropical environments and requires consistent moisture with occasional dry periods. Water it every 2 to 3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the active growing season, regular misting is beneficial as it increases humidity and promotes growth.
Temperature
Yellow snake tree originates from areas with average temperatures of 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). The plant prefers warm conditions and may need supplemental heating in colder weather.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Yellow snake tree is in early spring, when it comes out of dormancy. This encourages overall growth and the development of flowers. Fertilizing improves the foliage, stems, and branches, and promotes flowers that are larger, more vivid, and longer lasting. It also helps move nutrients from the roots to the blooms and strengthens the plant's health and resistance to disease.
Pruning
Pruning the yellow snake tree from early to late winter is essential for its health and growth. During this dormant period, removing dead branches helps increase air circulation and promotes stronger growth. This practice also reduces stress on the tree and improves the health of its blooms. Regular pruning helps maintain the tree's shape, reduces the risk of disease, and encourages the development of a strong, visually appealing plant.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Stereospermum
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 11
- Mature Height
- 14.94 m to 20.12 m
- Mature Spread
- 10.06 m to 14.94 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, Purple
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Nepal, Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Bhutan, Singapore, Bangladesh, Laos, Thailand, China
