It’s no secret that when we’re selecting a new tree for our yard, we often focus more on looks and shade, leaving little thought for the needs of our feathered friends. But just as we wouldn’t want to live in a place without food and shelter, neither do birds.
The right tree can offer the perfect balance of both and turn your yard into the go-to spot for every bird in the neighborhood.
Think such a tree doesn’t exist? Think again! There’s one quiet giant that delivers the full package!
Birds Simply Adore The Tipu Tree!
Let me tell you one thing, it’s easy to see why birds love this tree. The tipu tree, scientifically known as Tipuana tipu, hails from the tropical regions of South America and thrives in USDA zones 9-11.
It’s a perfect option for a shade tree and will make a stunning focal point in your yard. The Tipu tree is a true showstopper with its large, fern-like leaves and clusters of golden-yellow flowers that bloom from late spring into summer.
These bright blooms not only create a stunning visual effect but also draw in a variety of birds, eager to feast on nectar and find shelter.
Blooms Aren’t The Only Thing That’ll Attract Birds
Birds certainly love the yellow blossoms of the Tipu Tree, but that’s just the beginning of the story. Its lush canopy provides ideal shelter and a safe nesting site, keeping birds protected from predators.
But wait, there’s more! The tree also bears small fruits that attract psyllids.
Now, while these tiny insects can sometimes form large colonies and harm the tree, here’s the twist: they secrete honeydew, which birds like red-eyed vireos, blackpolls, warblers, kinglets, and thrushes simply can’t resist.
If you live in warmer climates like Florida or Southern California, you might even spot tropical birds feasting on the fruits of the Tipu Tree. How incredible is that?
Here’s How To Plant The Tipuana Tree
Planting the Tipuana Tree is as simple as it gets! It’s a low-maintenance option for anyone looking to add beauty to their yard with minimal fuss.
It thrives in full sun and can grow in a variety of soils, from clay to loam, and from neutral to very alkaline. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant, which means you won’t have to worry about frequent watering.
However, if the summers in your region are too warm and dry, I highly recommend deep watering your Tipu tree 2-3 times a week.
And if psyllids invade, ladybugs are your best friends! If this method doesn’t work, you can always apply chemical insecticides and fix the issue quickly!
But Beware Of This!
While the Tipu Tree is a great addition to your yard, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The good news is that it’s not invasive, even though it’s not native to our region.
However, it does produce helicopter-like seeds that can scatter and spread to nearby areas. So, while it won’t overtake your entire garden, you’ll want to plant it a safe distance from fences or property lines.
And one more thing: this tree can grow really tall, up to 50 feet, so make sure you choose a spacious spot to let it thrive without any worries.
Ready to create a home where birds can rest, feed, and take shelter without leaving your backyard? The Tipu tree is all you need!