About

Tabebuia rosea, also called pink poui, Sakura Malaysia and rosy trumpet tree, is a neotropical tree that grows up to 30 m (98 ft) and can reach a diameter at breast height of up to 100 cm (3 ft). The Spanish name roble de sabana, meaning "savannah oak", is widely used in Costa Rica, probably because it often remains in heavily deforested areas and because of the resemblance of its wood to that of oak trees. It is the national tree of El Salvador, where it is called maquilíshuat.

Even though Tecoma trees are not originally native to Malaysia, they have adapted extremely well to the Southeast Asian climate, especially in Malaysia. Over time, they have become a familiar and iconic seasonal sight in many Malaysian towns and cities. Because of their stunning pink blooms that resemble cherry blossoms, they are locally known as “Malaysia Sakura.”

Where it grows

This species is distributed from southern Mexico to Venezuela and Ecuador. It has been found growing from sea level to 1,200 m (3,900 ft), in temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 30 °C on average, with annual rainfall above 500 mm, and on soils with very variable pH.

Uses

Preparations of the bark of the tree are consumed to eliminate intestinal parasites, malaria and uterine cancer. A decoction of the bark is recommended for anemia and constipation. A decoction of the flowers, leaves and roots has been used to reduce fevers and pain, cause sweating, to treat tonsil inflammation and various other disorders.

Other Tabebuia plants

Silver trumpet tree · Pink manjack · Tabebuia ochracea · Cuban pink trumpet · White ipê · Trumpet-tree