They are purple trumpet trees (Tabebuia impetiginosa) and they are covered in showy, lavender, trumpet-shaped flowers. These trees grow 12 to 18 feet tall with a 10- to 15-foot spread.

Since the tree is now quite big, it also covers the driveway and the cars parked there, burying them in blooms. Going anywhere sends lavender-pink flowers flying from the roof.

It isn't surprising that angel's trumpet plants, from tropical America, get plenty of publicity: They grow up to 15 feet tall, they flaunt dangling blossoms that can be 20 inches long and they ...