Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia mexicana) and Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) are two vibrant plants often found in warm climates, captivating observers with their showy blooms. While they share a common genus, Caesalpinia, these species possess distinct characteristics. Understanding their differences can guide gardeners in selecting the appropriate plant for their landscape.
Visual Distinctions
The flowers of Pride of Barbados showcase a striking combination of bright orange-yellow petals with long, contrasting dark red stamens that extend prominently. These bowl-shaped flowers, approximately 2 inches wide, appear in upright clusters, often with up to 40 blooms per cluster. Mexican Bird of Paradise flowers are primarily a vibrant lemon-yellow and are slightly fragrant. These yellow blooms also form in clustered spikes, generally 3 to 6 inches long.
Leaf characteristics also distinguish the plants. Pride of Barbados features feathery, twice-pinnate green leaves. Mexican Bird of Paradise also has bipinnate dark green leaves, but its leaflets are more rounded. Pride of Barbados stems and branches can have sharp prickles. The Mexican Bird of Paradise is thornless.
Growth Characteristics
Pride of Barbados is a fast-growing upright shrub or small tree, typically reaching 10 feet tall as a shrub and up to 20 feet as a tree. It often develops a rounded, multi-stemmed form. Its foliage can remain evergreen in mild climates, though it may become deciduous in cooler regions or with frost. This plant is winter hardy in USDA Zones 9-11; in zone 8b, it often dies back to the ground in winter but reliably returns in mid-spring.
Mexican Bird of Paradise is also a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded shape. While evergreen in frost-free areas, it will lose its leaves in colder regions or if frost occurs. It is hardy to about 15°F and suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Cultivation Needs
Both plants thrive in full sun, which promotes the best flowering. Pride of Barbados performs best in hot, humid weather and can tolerate some light shade, though this may reduce flower production. Mexican Bird of Paradise also requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering and can tolerate reflected heat.
Well-drained soil is important for both species. Pride of Barbados grows well in medium moisture, fertile, well-drained soils and tolerates a range of pH, from acidic to alkaline. It is intolerant of poorly drained conditions, which can lead to issues like mushroom root rot. Mexican Bird of Paradise also prefers well-drained soil and adapts to a pH range of 5.6 to 7.8. Both plants exhibit good drought tolerance once established, but occasional deep watering can enhance flowering. Pride of Barbados generally has no serious insect or disease problems, though it can be susceptible to scale, whitefly, and mealybugs. Mexican Bird of Paradise is considered virtually pest and disease free.
Landscaping Applications
Pride of Barbados serves as an excellent specimen plant or can be incorporated into mixed shrub borders. Its showy flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Due to its thorny stems, it can also function as an effective barrier or hedge, though it is advisable to avoid planting it near walkways or patios. It is a popular plant for xeriscaping.
Mexican Bird of Paradise also makes a striking accent shrub or small tree, suitable for beds and borders, and can be used in Mediterranean garden styles. Its fine-textured foliage and vibrant yellow flowers make it highly ornamental. Its ability to tolerate heat and low water needs makes it an excellent option for arid garden designs.
Additional Considerations
Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia mexicana) is native to northern Mexico. Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is native to tropical regions of the Americas, likely originating in the West Indies, and is the national flower of Barbados. Both species contain toxic compounds. The seeds are poisonous if ingested, and other plant parts can cause gastrointestinal upset. Caution is advisable when planting these near children or pets.