Know before you grow

Flowering trees from the Southern Hemisphere make bold seasonal statements in the landscape. Follow these guidelines when planning: Selection: Do your homework. Large trees need wide berths. Smaller ones fit in tight spaces; a few will even grow in pots. Some species thrive inland; others are best near the coast.

Placement: Most of these trees want fast-draining soil. Some need full sun; others are OK in light shade. Consider leaf drop and, more important, flower drop. Certain blossoms (jacaranda included) are slippery and sticky and can stain pavement.

Planting: Transplant these cold-sensitive trees in spring or summer but not in fall. Moved now, they may rot during winter.

Watering, feeding: Though some species are drought-tolerant, all young trees need regular irrigation and a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots and conserve moisture. Feeding needs vary by species, so check with your nursery.

Pruning: Prune these trees after flowering, as needed. Timing may vary between species and from year to year. Some, such as the floss silk tree, are best left untouched; pruning destroys the natural symmetry.

— Lili Singer