Family: Bignoniaceae
Author: (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos
Bibliography: Loefgrenia 50: 2 (1970)
Year: 1970
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Handroanthus
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. Mexico to S. Trop. America
Description
The Pink trumpet-tree, scientifically known as Handroanthus impetiginosus, is an enchanting deciduous tree renowned for its vibrant and breathtaking display of pink flowers. This species belongs to the family Bignoniaceae and was formally classified by (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos.
Description and Characteristics
The Pink trumpet-tree is celebrated for its striking floral clusters that blossom in an array of pink hues, ranging from pale pinks to deep magentas. These flowers are trumpet-shaped, a feature that contributes to the common name, and bloom conspicuously before the tree’s leaves fully emerge, creating a brilliant pink canopy that captivates onlookers. The leaves are palmate, typically composed of five leaflets, and provide a lush green backdrop for the vivid blossoms.
Distribution and Habitat
This tree species enjoys a wide geographical range, extending from Central Mexico through Central America and reaching as far south as tropical regions of South America. Such extensive distribution underscores the Pink trumpet-tree’s adaptability to diverse climates and terrains. It thrives in tropical and subtropical environments and is often found in open forests, savannas, and along rivers.
Ecological and Cultural Significance
Handroanthus impetiginosus plays a crucial ecological role in its native habitat. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds, ensuring the continuation of the species through cross-pollination. Additionally, the presence of this tree adds aesthetic value to the landscapes, making it a popular choice for urban planting in parks and streets.
From an ethnobotanical perspective, the Pink trumpet-tree holds significant cultural importance. In various cultures across its native range, it is utilized for medicinal purposes. The inner bark, known as “lapacho” or “taheebo,” is traditionally brewed into teas believed to possess anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Conservation and Protection
Despite its wide range, the Pink trumpet-tree faces challenges from deforestation and habitat loss, which threaten its natural populations. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the preservation of this magnificent species. Promoting sustainable forestry practices and protecting natural reserves where the Pink trumpet-tree thrives are critical steps in safeguarding its future.
In conclusion, the Pink trumpet-tree (Handroanthus impetiginosus) stands out as a symbol of natural beauty and ecological richness. Its stunning pink blossoms, wide distribution from Mexico to South Tropical America, and its significant role both ecologically and culturally highlight the importance of preserving this remarkable species for generations to come.
Common Names
En: Pink trumpet-tree, Taheebo, Pink Trumpet Tree
Pt: Pau-d’arco, Îpe-roxo, Ipê Rosa, Ipê Roxo
Es: Lapacho, Quebracho, Ipe, Lapacho Rosado, Roble Morado
Synonyms
- Tecoma ipe var. integra (Sprague)
- Tecoma impetiginosa (Mart. ex DC.)
- Tecoma ipe var. integrifolia (Hassl.)
- Tabebuia dugandii (Standl.)
- Tabebuia avellanedae (Lorentz ex Griseb.)
- Tecoma avellanedae ((Lorentz ex Griseb.) Speg.)
- Tecoma adenophylla (Bureau & K.Schum.)
- Tecoma avellanedae var. alba (Lillo)
- Tabebuia impetiginosa ((Mart. ex DC.) Standl.)
- Gelseminum avellanedae ((Lorentz ex Griseb.) Kuntze)
- Tabebuia palmeri (Rose)
- Tabebuia nicaraguensis (S.F.Blake)
- Tabebuia schunkevigoi (D.R.Simpson)
- Tabebuia ipe var. integra ((Sprague) Sandwith)
- Handroanthus avellanedae ((Lorentz ex Griseb.) Mattos)
- Tecoma integra ((Sprague) Hassl.)
- Tecoma ipe f. leucotricha (Hassl.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Bark
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 17, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 18, 2021 by Ferraz Ivson (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Busón Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jul 6, 2020 by JP Corrêa Carvalho (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2020 by Simon Daiana (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 11, 2020 by costa maria (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Busón Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2020 by Matos Regina (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Jun 29, 2022 by Oliveira Vander (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2021 by Panhoci Madalena (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2021 by Panhoci Madalena (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 6, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 5, 2022 by Julian Porcel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 7, 2022 by Reichel Mirta (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Dan Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Busón Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Busón Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 5, 2013 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 5, 2013 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 5, 2013 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 4, 2013 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 4, 2013 by AMAP Lab – Guyane 2022 (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:117330-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Handroanthus impetiginosus (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/4092242)