In Northern California they are often seen as a medium-sized trees, of about 25 ft. tall, but in warmer climates they will grow much larger, to 40 ft. or more. Their crown is open, of irregular shape, and usually as wide as the trees are high. In fact, Jacarandas commonly grow as multi-trunked trees, or with very low branches, giving a dramatic effect. Their leaves are vivid green, finely cut and fern-like. The lacy texture of the leaves and the open branching produce a pleasant, light shade.
Jacarandas are briefly deciduous in the Bay Area.
Blooming while still dormant in the winter, they are a stunning sight of lavender-blue flowers on a bare tree. In California, where winters are wet instead of dry, Jacarandas drop their leaves later than they typically would, as the rains decrease in early spring. They then bloom before or somewhat concomitantly with the emergence of new leaves, in late spring or early summer. Quite ornamental, leathery seedpods follow. Jacarandas should be grown in well-drained, sandy soils.