Poinciana, Peacock Flower, Dwarf Poinciana, Mexican Bird of Paradise, Red Bird of Paradise
caesalpinia pulcherrima
Also known as: ["Poinciana","Peacock Flower","Dwarf Poinciana","Mexican Bird of Paradise","Red Bird of Paradise"]
Overview
A tropical flowering plant known for its vibrant, showy flowers in shades of orange, red, and yellow. It is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub or small tree native to the tropics and subtropics.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fast growing","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Caesalpinia |
| Botanical Name: | Caesalpinia pulcherrima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be cut back by one-third to half for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures and is not frost-tolerant.
Avoid drafts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and blooming.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stops blooming; leaves may turn yellow or drop; prolonged cold can cause root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C); reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow; blooms may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Caesalpinia pulcherrima, especially if they consume the seeds or pods. The plant's toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions in felines, requiring urgent veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Caesalpinia pulcherrima seeds and pods can lead to significant toxicity, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects. The plant's compounds can be harmful to canine physiology, necessitating prompt veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCaesalpinia pulcherrima contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and pods, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is not severe but can lead to discomfort and adverse reactions in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Caesalpinia pulcherrima toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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