Sparky Bells (Tecoma stans ‘Sparky’) is a vibrant shrub that brings color to gardens. Developed at Arizona State University, it is chosen for its continuous blooming and resilience, making it a rewarding addition to many landscapes.
Understanding Sparky Bells
Sparky Bells grows as a compact, mounding shrub, reaching 3 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide. Its glossy, dark green, compound leaves provide a lush backdrop for its showy, bell-shaped or trumpet-shaped blooms. These are typically striking apricot yellow with reddish-orange throats, or sometimes two-toned burgundy and golden.
Flowers appear in clusters and bloom profusely from spring through fall, offering a long season of interest. Sparky Bells produces few, if any, seed pods, contributing to a tidier appearance and encouraging more blooms. Its nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Planting and Care Guide
Light Requirements
Sparky Bells thrives in full sun, ideally six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates, insufficient light may result in lankier growth and reduced flower production. Proper light exposure ensures robust growth and abundant blooms.
Soil Needs
Sparky Bells adapts to various soil types but prefers well-draining soil. It tolerates soils from sandy to loamy or clay, provided good drainage is ensured. It also tolerates a wide pH range, performing well in neutral to alkaline conditions. Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter can improve drainage and aeration, benefiting root development.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Sparky Bells, especially for newly planted shrubs and during extreme heat. While established plants become more drought-tolerant, regular watering helps maintain their vigor and bloom quality. Water deeply, allowing moisture to penetrate the soil to about 12 inches. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, as Sparky Bells does not tolerate consistently wet feet.
Fertilizing
Sparky Bells generally does not require heavy fertilization, especially if planted in rich, well-amended soil. However, an annual application of a balanced all-purpose fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. For container-grown plants, a bi-monthly feeding schedule during the growing season is beneficial due to quicker nutrient depletion. If flowering seems sparse, a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content may encourage more blooms.
Pruning Techniques
Pruning Sparky Bells helps maintain its shape, encourages bushiness, and promotes continuous flowering. The best time for significant pruning is late winter or early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. This allows for the removal of any frost-damaged or old, unproductive branches. For overgrown plants, a hard pruning to the ground can rejuvenate the shrub, which will regrow vigorously from the base. Light shaping can be performed throughout the growing season to maintain a tidy appearance and remove spent flowers.
Common Issues and Solutions
Sparky Bells is generally a resilient plant, but it can encounter environmental challenges and pests. Cold temperatures can cause foliage damage, particularly if temperatures drop below 28°F. Prune back affected growth in early spring, and the plant will typically recover with fresh new growth. Inadequate sunlight can lead to a leggy appearance and reduced flowering, which can be remedied by relocating the plant to a sunnier spot.
The plant is not highly susceptible to many pests or diseases, though occasional infestations of whiteflies or spider mites may occur. These can often be managed with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applications, targeting the undersides of leaves where pests reside. Ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overwatering helps prevent fungal issues.
Uses in Your Garden
Sparky Bells offers diverse applications in garden design, thanks to its compact size and vibrant display. It serves as a specimen plant, drawing the eye with its continuous flush of colorful blooms. The shrub is also well-suited for mass plantings, creating striking borders or informal hedges. Its upright growth habit makes it an excellent choice for container planting, brightening patios or balconies.
The plant’s ability to attract pollinators like hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies makes it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Its bright green foliage and abundant flowers impart a tropical feel to any landscape.
Safety Considerations
Sparky Bells (Tecoma stans ‘Sparky’) is generally not listed as toxic in common plant databases for humans or pets. However, it is sensible to exercise caution with any plant in the garden. Prevent ingestion of any plant parts by young children and pets. If accidental ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian or poison control center for guidance.