Caesalpinia pulcherrima ( Pride of Barbados ) is a small-sized evergreen tree that is native to tropical regions of either America or Asia. It puts on a spectacular show of yellow and red flowers from spring until autumn. The tree is often grown to attract birds and other beneficial insects and is used in some countries as a thorny hedge.
Seedlings are easy to get started and will thrive in warm, humid conditions. Despite this its easily grown in England (in pots) and will tolerate temperatures down to 5°C/41°F.
Other common names include Peacock Flower, Barbados Pride, Mexican Bird of Paradise, Dwarf Poinciana, and the Red Bird of Paradise.
Growth
Caesalpinia pulcherrima is a fast-growing shrub or small tree which usually reaches 3 metres (10 feet). It has become an invasive weed in some countries. In temperatures above 20°C/45°F the seeds germinate easily, and the plant grows rapidly. Branches are prickly and clad with twice pinnate green leaves. Up to forty yellow and red flowers bloom on the end of each raceme. Flowers are followed by pods that contain between 8-10 seeds each.
In colder climates, the tree is exclusively grown in pots and kept indoors or sheltered during winter.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Fabaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate, Sub Tropical & Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
5°C to 45°C / 41 to 113°F
SOIL TYPE:
Is tolerant of most types of soil.
LOCATION:
Full Sun
HEIGHT:
Up to 3-6 metres (10-20 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 3 metres (10 feet)
pH:
5.5-8.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen in the tropics, deciduous in temperate climates.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by Birds.
MATURITY:
2-3 years
GERMINATION RATES:
80-90%
GERMINATION TIME:
2-3 weeks at 20-30°C / 70 to 85°F.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 8
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Not recommended.
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes
FACTS ABOUT CAESALPINIA PULCHERRIMA (Pride of Barbados)
The leaves of the Pride of Barbados are thrown into the water to stun fish in Nicaragua.
A Pride of Barbados flower appeared on Meghan Markle’s dress during her wedding to Prince Harry.
The genus name honours Andrea Cesalpini; Italian botanist, philosopher, and physician to Pope Clement VIII.
