The perennial shrub Tecoma stans is known by the common English names Yellow Trumpetbush, Yellow Bells (geelklokkies in Afrikaans), "Yellow Eler" and ginger-thomas. It has many Spanish names as well, including esperanza, which is Spanish for "hope." It is native to South and Central America, north to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It has been introduced to several other regions, including southern Africa, the Philippines and Hawaii. Tecoma stans is the official flower of the United States Virgin Islands. It has become a nuisance weed on several Pacific islands, especially in French Polynesia where it is called piti.