Tabebuia impetiginosa ‘Satariya’

Tabebuia impetiginosa ‘Satria’, commonly known in Israel as the Tabovia tree, is a temperate-deciduous tree that reaches a height of approximately 9-12 meters locally and up to 30 meters in its native tropical habitats in South America. With its tall, elliptical shape, this species is prized for its spectacular floral display. Its bark is relatively smooth with a light brown color, while its leaves are opposite and compound.

In late winter, the tree sheds its leaves, followed by a breathtaking display of funnel-shaped, bright pink flowers in March. The blossoms appear in rounded clusters with a distinctive yellow throat and last for about six weeks. After flowering, the tree develops elongated seed pods, typical of the Bignoniaceae family, measuring around 30 cm in length.

In its early years, the tree grows slowly but later achieves a medium-fast growth rate once established. It requires regular watering initially but becomes drought-tolerant as it matures, even thriving in sandy soils. In its native regions, the wood is valued for its strength and durability, commonly used in furniture production and construction. However, over-harvesting in South America poses a threat to its survival.

The tree has strong resistance to pests and diseases, making it an excellent choice for urban planting. It’s suited to a variety of soils, provided they are well-drained and can thrive in gardens, lawns, and as a street tree. Its light foliage provides an airy shade that is ideal for planting over grass, ensuring minimal impact on the underlying lawn.

The Tabovia genus, a relatively recent addition to the Bignoniaceae family, includes about 100 species of trees and shrubs native to tropical America. The species was introduced to Israel in the 1970s by Hanoy Farms under its previous name, Tabebuia ipe, and has since become a common sight in gardens and urban landscapes across the country. One notable cultivar, Tabebuia impetiginosa ‘Satariya’, is distinguished by its vibrant pink-magenta blooms, which resemble spherical pom-poms and offer a spectacular floral display in contrast to other varieties.

This variety is ideal for planting in Israel’s diverse regions, except in high mountain areas where temperatures drop below 4°C in winter. With its striking blooms, resilience, and adaptability, Tabebuia impetiginosa ‘Satria’ is a valuable addition to any landscape, providing beauty, durability, and a haven for pollinators.