Does Esperanza Bloom on New or Old Growth?

Growth

• Esperanza grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zone 8 and above. It is a perennial and can grow into a small 15-foot tree in tropical climates, but averages 4 to 6 feet in the U.S. desert southwest because it dies back to the ground when freezing temperatures arrive. It grows extremely fast and can grow to 4 or 5 feet from roots in the span of five or six months.

Soil

• Esperanza has a fine root system that allows it to adapt to poor soil conditions. It grows wild in rocky, sandy, well-drained soil and often suffers to adapt initially if the soil is too rich.

Water

• Esperanza performs best when allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings. Allowing the soil to dry forces the root system to explore more deeply into the ground and become better established. Water deeply but irregularly and the plant rewards you with quick growth and flower development.

Seed Pods

• Esperanza creates 4- to 6-inch-long seed pods in late summer. Seed pods are produced prolifically when the plant has grown and bloomed well. The seed pods can be allowed to dry and collected for planting. Many gardeners prefer not to let the seeds scatter on their own because it creates a lot of litter. Esperanza are very tough, aggressive growers and could also appear invasive in the right conditions.