Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia gilliesii)
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Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia gilliesii) is a a native of Argentina and Uruguay that is now wide spread in North America. It is an upright, exotic-appearing deciduous shrub that is fast-growing to a height and width of 6 to10 feet. An open shrub with sparse foliage, the Bird of Paradise can be grown alone or planted 6 to 9 feet apart to form a hedge. It can be pruned during winter, when dormant, for shaping and to promote denser growth. Going dormant in colder weather, this shrub is hardy to 5°F and seems to tolerate frosts well where it is grown in the Denver Botanic Gardens. Drought resistant, very heat tolerant and with low water needs, this plant is a good addition to the xeric garden. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and has a high tolerance for saline and alkaline soils. | |
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Foliage is bipinnate, 3-5in long, and has a finely cut fern-like appearance. | |
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Blooms are showy, exotic racines of yellow pea-like flowers with long red to hot-pink stamens. They are 4 to 5 inches long. Attractive to hummingbirds, flowers occur on branch terminals during spring and summer. | |
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Stems are green with noticeable lenticils. | |
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Seed Pods are tanish-brown and curled. They persist into winter and are considered poisonous. |
Photos: Judy Sedbrook
