The Red Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is an ornamental shrub with striking, colorful blooms. This heat-tolerant plant (Peacock Flower, Barbados Pride, or Dwarf Poinciana) displays brilliant orange-red flowers from spring through fall, sometimes year-round in frost-free regions. Its feathery, fern-like leaves provide a lush backdrop to the blossoms, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
Cultivating Optimal Growth
The Red Bird of Paradise thrives with ample sunlight for abundant flowering. It performs best in full sun, receiving at least six to eight hours daily. Partial shade is tolerated in very hot regions, but insufficient light reduces blooms.
This plant prefers well-draining soil; heavy clay retains too much moisture, suffocating roots. Ideal soil is slightly acidic to neutral in pH for healthy roots. Organic matter, like compost, enhances soil structure and fertility.
Consistent, deep watering is beneficial during dry periods and establishment. Regular irrigation maintains vigor, but allow soil to dry significantly between waterings to prevent root rot. Once established, the Red Bird of Paradise is drought tolerant.
The Red Bird of Paradise prefers warm temperatures and is heat-tolerant. It is sensitive to frost, shedding leaves below freezing, though hardy to about 28°F (-2°C).
Fertilize the Red Bird of Paradise annually in spring with a slow-release organic fertilizer. During the growing season, a balanced or higher phosphorus fertilizer encourages flowering. Liquid fertilizers can be applied bi-weekly during the growing season, following instructions.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning maintains shape, size, and promotes continuous flowering. Significant pruning is best done in late winter or early spring, after frost or a flush of blooms. Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms.
Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to improve air circulation and health. For shaping or size control, prune in winter. Heavy pruning (cutting back to one or two feet every couple of years) reinvigorates the plant and promotes denser growth.
Addressing Common Challenges
Pests and environmental stressors can affect the Red Bird of Paradise. Common pests include:
Aphids
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Whiteflies
Infestation signs include:
Yellowing leaves
Stunted growth
Sticky residue (honeydew)
Visible insects
Minor infestations are managed with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap/horticultural oil.
Root rot is the most frequent disease, caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Well-draining soil and allowing it to dry between waterings prevent root rot. Fungal or bacterial diseases also occur, appearing as discolored spots or streaks on leaves. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering reduce fungal problems.
Environmental stressors impact plant health. Yellowing leaves indicate improper watering or nutrient deficiency. Insufficient light reduces blooms; excessive fertilization causes leaf browning or wilting. Addressing these conditions resolves issues.
Winter Care and Protection
In regions where temperatures drop below freezing, winter protection is important. In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, established plants survive brief frosts outdoors. However, temperatures below 28-30°F (-2 to -1°C) cause significant dieback.
For plants in the ground in borderline zones, heavy mulching around the base protects the root crown. In areas with colder winters, bringing potted plants indoors before the first frost is recommended. Indoors, the plant prefers consistent warm temperatures and adequate light near a bright window. During winter dormancy, reduce watering frequency, allowing soil to dry more.