Pride of Barbados, Dwarf Poinciana, Paradise Bird, Caesaplinia pulcherrima, is easily grown from seed offered by the GreenDealer Selection of Tropical Rainforest Plants, Shrubs and Hedges and Tropical Houseplants.

Caesalpinia is a genus of tropical evergreen trees and shrubs which belong to the Fabaceae or Bean Family. Some species were formerly classified under the genus "Poinciana." Among the more beautiful of the Caesalpinias is our offering of C. pulcherrima. It is a very decorative shrub growing to 10 feet outdoors where it is used for landscaping in climate zones 9 and 10. In colder regions it is grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months.

Pride of Barbados, Caesalpinia pulcherrima, is a very attractive plant. It is somewhat prickly with lacy mimosa-like foliage. Terminal inflorescence with five flaring golden-yellow petals about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across and displaying handsome long red stamens. A very desirable and easy to grow houseplant.

The 4 specimen shown above were photographed at various locations in north-central Costa Rica, in June of 1999. The last photograph was taken in Mission, Texas by Maria and Michael Hilton in September, 2004.

Winter hardy in the tropical zones 9 - 11. Grow as tub plant where winters are cold and bring indoors until May.