The Jacaranda Tree (Smith)
Scottish Country Dance Instruction
The Jacaranda Tree (Smith) (R4x32) 4C (4C set) 32 bar Reel for 4 Couples in a 4 Couple Set, devised by Betty Smith, 1986, Published In Some Dances From Orlando Branch.1- 8 1st and 3rd couples, with 3rd couple leading, dance down
Cast up around 4th couple, dance up and cast into exchanged positions. 3214
9-16 3rd lady with 2nd man, and 1st lady with 4th man set and change places right hand
3rd man with 2nd lady, and 1st man with 4th lady repeat. (2)(3)(4)(1)
17-24 4th and 1st couples dance half rights and lefts
3rd and 1st couples repeat. (2)(1)34
25-32 2nd and 1st couples repeat
1st couple dance down the centre line as 2nd, 3rd, and 4th couples step up
1st couple cast up into fourth place. 2341
(WEECRIB)
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The Jacaranda Tree (Smith) - Scottish Country Dancing Instruction VideoDance Information
Jacaranda mimosifolia is a subtropical tree originating from south-central South America, specifically southern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina.It has been introduced to various regions worldwide due to its striking violet-blue flowers. In its native habitat, the species is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, primarily because of habitat loss and overexploitation.
The tree can reach heights of 25 to 40 feet, with a canopy spread that may equal or exceed its height. It features light grey bark that is smooth in young specimens and becomes finely scaly as it matures. The leaves are bipinnate, resembling those of ferns, and can grow up to 18 inches long. Flowering typically occurs in spring to early summer, producing panicles of trumpet-shaped flowers that are about 5 cm long. These flowers often appear before the new leaves emerge. The fruit is a flattened, oblong capsule containing numerous slender seeds.
Jacaranda mimosifolia thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils with a slightly acidic pH. It is tolerant of clay and loamy soils but does not fare well in heavy, poorly drained conditions. The tree prefers warm climates and is sensitive to frost, with young plants being particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures. In the UK, it is best grown in containers that can be moved indoors during colder months. During winter, watering should be minimal, only when the soil is completely dry. In summer, allow the soil to dry between waterings. Repotting into fresh compost annually is recommended to maintain plant health.
The wood of Jacaranda mimosifolia is pale grey to whitish, straight-grained, relatively soft, and knot-free. It dries without difficulty and is often used in its green or wet state for turnery and bowl carving.
In some regions, such as parts of South Africa and Queensland, Australia, Jacaranda mimosifolia is considered invasive, as it can outcompete native vegetation. Despite this, it remains a popular ornamental tree in many cities, including Pretoria, Johannesburg, Sydney, Buenos Aires, and various locations across southern Europe, southern Africa, and parts of Asia. Its vibrant blooms have made it a symbol of spring in several cultures and have inspired various traditions and folklore.
Jacaranda Tree In Flower, Whakatāne, New Zealand
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Text from this original Jacaranda mimosifolia article on Wikipedia.
Image from Kahuroa, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
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