Caesalpinia mexicana
Mexican Bird Of Paradise
Description
Fragrant lemon yellow flowers in 3-6" long racemes. In colder areas, an herbaceous perennial often to only 3-6'. Ferny lush green foliage and spectacular flowers. Will tolerate more heat than most. Pods and seeds may be poisonous. Large shrub 15' tall & wide. Native of Northern Mexico. In low desert, evergreen and can bloom year round. No spines. Seeds are distributed by pods splitting but seedlings are easily controlled. Moderately rapid grower but needs well dr soil
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Attracts Bees
Design Styles
Japanese, Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Tropical
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Parking Strip, Patio, Park, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.