The Texas Esperanza plant, known scientifically as Tecoma stans, and often called Yellow Bells, are celebrated for their attractive blooms and resilience in warm climates. You probably have seen “Gold Star” esperanza or the common “Yellow Bells” blooming all over the city right about now. But do you know about the charming and just as tough, dwarf esperanza varieties in the Kalama series? If not, put these names in your memory and look for them next time you’re at Rainbow Gardens: Blood Orange, Pomegranate and Papaya Dwarf Kalama Esperanza.
7 Kalama Dwarf Esperanza Characteristics
- Size:
The Dwarf Kalama Esperanza is a petite version of the traditional esperanza shrub, growing to a height and width of approximately 18-24 inches. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or urban landscapes. (“Gold Star” esperanza grows 4-6′, and “Yellow Bells” grows about the same.) - Flower:
These Kalama dwarf esperanza varieties come in vibrant hues of orange and red, and have the same trumpet shaped flower that hummingbirds and other pollinators love. The common Texas esperanza plant produces striking clusters of bright yellow flowers that can enhance any outdoor space with their cheerful appearance. - Growth Habit:
With an upright but diminutive growth habit, the Dwarf Kalama Esperanza is suitable for areas that the larger Texas esperanza plant might not fit in your gardens; like under windows or in small patio, deck or balcony containers. Its versatility also allows it to complement existing garden bed layouts. Plant it in mass and it’s like planting sunshine in your yard. - Heat Tolerance:
Renowned for its ability to withstand high temperatures, these plants thrive in warm climates, continuing to bloom even through intense heat. This characteristic makes it a popular choice for gardeners in regions where other plants may struggle. - Pollinator Attraction:
The vibrant blossoms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for those looking to support local pollinators. - Maintenance:
Low-maintenance by nature, the Dwarf Kalama Esperanza requires minimal pruning. If you feel the need to trim, this is best done in late winter/early spring to encourage healthy growth come spring. - Hardiness:
Typically hardy to USDA Zones 10-11, the Kalama Esperanza thrives in warm regions but may need protection from freezing temperatures in cooler climates.
Kalama Dwarf Esperanza Series Varieties:
The Kalama series includes several varieties, each with a variation of a fresh and citrusy orange hue.
- Kalama Blood Orange:
This variety features stunning orange flowers with a darker orange center, adding a bold splash of color to any garden. - Kalama Pomegranate:
Exhibiting striking orange-red flowers, the Kalama Pomegranate variety provides a rich and warm tone that can complement a wide range of garden aesthetics. - Kalama Papaya:
Known for its bright orange flowers, this variety offers a vibrant and lively addition to garden spaces.
The Dwarf Kalama varieties of the Texas Esperanza plant offer a perfect blend of beauty and resilience all wrapped up in a manageable plant that can fit in any sunny area of your landscapes, decks or balconies. The abundance of flowers they put out for the pollinators when many other perennials are shutting down from the heat, is welcome and appreciated.
Whether you’re looking to attract pollinators, add a pop of color, or introduce low-maintenance plants to your landscape, these dwarf varieties are sure to meet your needs and enhance your outdoor environment. These are in limited supply, so if you want them, you might want to come get them soon. If sunshine yellow is your hue, you might want to keep your eye on the common Texas esperanza plants, “Yellow Bells” or “Gold Star”. I think you’ll be happy whichever you choose.
~The Happy Gardener, Lisa Mulroy
Are the dwarf esperanzas deer resistant?
Hi Linda,
While Esperanza, including these, are usually considered deer resistant, during times of drought like conditions they may nibble a bit (really in anything). Bit for the most part there are considered deer resistant and highly pest resistant.
Would they bloom under shades of an oak tree?
Thank you.
Hi Melanie,
They would probably give you some blooms, from getting morning light, and then maybe late afternoon sun as the sun shifts over the oak tree throughout the day, but this plant really thrives in full sun and you’d see the most blooms if you offer that.
How much are they?
Hi Lori,
Both locations have 1 gallons for $10.99
Hi. I purchased one about a month ago. Should I repot now? It was blooming but not any longer. I desire to keep in planter. Thank you.
Hi Nancy,
Do you still have it in its nursery container? If so, I would say yes, repot it to a container that is as at least twice the diameter of the nursery pot. If you’ve already upped the pot it was in at the nursery, it probably is just going through an adjustment phase or regular bloom cycle. It will bloom again. You can offer it a fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout its growing period. We like Nelsons Plant Food for Plumeria and other Tropical Bloomers. Its a complete fertilizer that has a higher phosphorous number to promote those gorgeous blooms.