I've always been fascinated by the vibrant blooms of the Tabebuia rosea, and while they are indeed more commonly found outdoors, it's an intriguing challenge to try and cultivate one indoors.
Firstly, in terms of light, these trees thrive in full sunlight when outdoors. If you're thinking of keeping one inside, you'll need to replicate that as closely as possible. Placing your tree near a south-facing window where it can get several hours of direct sunlight a day would be ideal. You might also consider supplementing natural light with a grow light, especially during shorter winter days when sunlight is limited.
Temperature is another crucial factor. Tabebuia rosea is native to tropical climates, so they prefer warm temperatures. Keeping your indoor environment around 65-75°F (18-24°C) should suit the tree well. Be cautious of drafts or sudden temperature changes, such as those near a frequently opened door.
Humidity is something to keep an eye on, as these tropical trees appreciate a more humid environment. You might want to run a humidifier nearby or place a tray of water with pebbles under the pot to increase the humidity around the plant.
Regarding pests, indoor conditions can sometimes shield plants from outdoor pests, but you should still be vigilant. Common pests like spider mites or aphids could be an issue, especially in drier indoor conditions. Regularly check the leaves for signs of these pests and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
It's also worth noting that Tabebuia rosea can grow quite large, so space might become an issue as it matures. You'll need to consider how you plan to manage its size indoors, possibly through regular pruning.
One limitation to keep in mind is that you might not get the same prolific blooming that you would see with an outdoor tree, simply due to the constraints of the indoor environment. But even without blooms, the leaves and structure can be quite attractive.
If you're set on growing one inside, I'd recommend looking up specific horticultural guides or reaching out to botanical garden experts for advice tailored to your region. They can often provide insights specific to your local climate and indoor conditions.
As a follow-up, have you considered starting with a smaller Tabebuia or a similar, more manageable indoor plant to test your setup before committing to a larger tree? That might offer a smoother transition into keeping tropical plants indoors.