Tiracó

(Pithecellobium roseum)

Tiracó (Pithecellobium roseum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pithecellobium roseum, commonly known as Tiracó, is a semi-deciduous tree native to tropical dry forests and the coastal regions of Northern South America, including Venezuela and the Venezuelan Antilles. It typically grows to a height of 8-18 feet (2.4-5.5 meters) with a slender width, often around 6 inches (0.15 meters), which is more than the stated 0.2 feet. The Tiracó features compound leaves that may shed some foliage during dry seasons. It produces an array of blue, pink, purple, and white flowers in the spring, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

The Tiracó is valued for its vibrant floral display and its adaptability to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils. It is often used in tropical and subtropical gardens for ornamental purposes, and due to its modest size, it is suitable for small garden spaces and urban environments. While it thrives in full sun, it can also tolerate light shade. The tree is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only moderate watering once established. However, it is not widely known in cultivation outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 7.5-18 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Green, Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Tropical dry forests and coastal regions of Northern South America, including Venezuela and the Venezuelan Antilles

Other Names

Common Names: Tiracó Rojo, Yacure, Chancán, Buche Colorado, Taguapire

Scientific Names: , Inga pubescens, Pithecellobium roseum, Pithecellobium forfex, Pithecellobium roseum var. glaucescens, Pithecellobium pubescens, Pithecellobium glaucescens, Pithecolobium parviflorum, Pithecellobium parviflorum, Mimosa rosea

GBIF Accepted Name: Pithecellobium roseum (Vahl) Barneby & J.W.Grimes