Cuban Pink Trumpet
Tabebuia heterophylla
Cuban Pink Trumpet
Urban Forest Tree Walk
Scientific Name
Tabebuia heterophylla
Location
Baker Park
5th Ave. S.
Anthony Park
Fleischmann Park
The Cuban Pink Trumpet Tree (Tabebuia heterophylla) is a breathtaking tropical tree that lights up the landscape with masses of soft pink, trumpet-shaped flowers. Native to the Caribbean—particularly Cuba and nearby islands—this deciduous tree is a springtime star in South Florida, putting on a dramatic floral display that stops people in their tracks.
Growing 20 to 30 feet tall (sometimes taller), the Cuban Pink Trumpet Tree has a slender trunk and a rounded, airy canopy. In late winter or early spring, it often drops most of its leaves, making way for an explosion of pink blooms that cover the branches from end to end. The flowers are large, trumpet-like, and often lightly fragrant—giving the tree an almost ethereal presence when in full bloom.
Once the flowering show winds down, bright green leaves return, and slender seed pods may develop. This tree thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, is relatively drought-tolerant once established, and is a favorite in both public landscapes and private gardens where bold, seasonal beauty is desired.
Fast Facts
Spring’s Opening Act
This tree’s dazzling display usually happens in late winter or early spring, often before many other trees leaf out—making it one of the first bursts of color after cooler months. Think of it as nature’s fanfare for spring.
Hometown
The Cuban Pink Trumpet Tree is native to the Caribbean, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Lesser Antilles. It’s well-suited to subtropical climates and thrives in sunny, coastal regions like South Florida.
Leaves Take a Backseat
To make the flowers stand out even more, the Cuban Pink Trumpet Tree often sheds its leaves right before blooming. The result? An almost surreal, leafless canopy completely covered in pink blossoms.