Caesalpinia mexicana

Also Known As

Poinciana mexicana
Mexican Bird of Paradise
Mexican Holdback
Mexican Poinciana
Yellow Bird of Paradise Bush

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 10'-15'
W: 6'-10'

planting zones

8b-11

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Caesalpinia mexicana plant details

Caesalpinia mexicana is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees, butterflies and hummingbirds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Caesalpinia mexicana

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 FT - 10 FT - wide, 10 FT - 15 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: fragrant, showy

GROWING CONDITIONS for Caesalpinia mexicana

USDA Zones: 8b - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun

Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Spikes of fragrant golden yellow, butterfly shaped blossoms are borne from mid-summer to fall on an upright to vase shaped and thornless deciduous shrub to small tree. Dainty, mimosa-like blue-green foliage. Needs a well drained soil for best results. Grown as a perennial in the northern portions of its hardiness range where it typically only grows to 3-6' H. The Mexican Pride of Barbados is native to Mexico and the extreme Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas. This is an easily grown drought tolerant tree that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Considered by some to be root hardy to 10 °F. Note: Caesalpinias have a tendency to drop their foliage during shipment. So long as they are provided with light and appropriate moisture upon receipt they should recover and begin to grow fairly quickly.