The Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a vibrant, tropical shrub or small tree celebrated for its striking orange-red flowers and fern-like foliage. To ensure its survival and robust return in spring, specific winter care is essential. This guide outlines strategies for proper winter care, allowing this tropical beauty to thrive.
Understanding Pride of Barbados Hardiness
The Pride of Barbados originates from tropical regions of the Americas, including the West Indies. It is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 11. In zones 10 and 11, it often behaves as an evergreen shrub or small tree, maintaining foliage year-round. In zone 9, the plant may become deciduous, losing its leaves in response to cooler temperatures.
For gardeners in zone 8, particularly 8b, it functions as a returning perennial; its top growth will likely die back with frost, but roots can survive to resprout in spring. In climates colder than zone 8b, it is generally cultivated as an annual or requires specific overwintering measures. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 18°F, though it may lose leaves when temperatures drop into the 40s.
Preparing for Winter
As temperatures drop, a shift in care prepares Pride of Barbados for winter. Reduce watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry out more between applications, as overwatering during cooler periods can lead to root issues. Cease fertilization in late summer or early fall; nutrients too close to winter can encourage tender new growth vulnerable to cold damage. Light pruning before winter, focusing on spent flowers and weak growth, helps conserve the plant’s energy and reduces potential entry points for pests or diseases. For container-grown plants destined for indoor overwintering, gradual acclimation to indoor conditions (hardening off) helps reduce transplant shock.
Winter Care for In-Ground Plants
For in-ground Pride of Barbados in marginal or colder zones, protective measures are important for root survival. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as pine straw or wood chips, around the base for insulation. This helps regulate soil temperature, protecting the root system from freezing.
The above-ground portions commonly die back when temperatures fall below freezing, especially in zones 8 and 9. Despite this dieback, the protected root crown can survive and send up new growth in spring. For unexpected cold snaps, covering the plant with a blanket or frost cloth offers additional temporary protection.
Winter Care for Potted Plants
Bringing potted Pride of Barbados indoors for winter is common in colder climates to ensure survival. This transition should occur before the first hard frost. Once indoors, the plant requires bright, indirect light, ideally near a south-facing window, to compensate for reduced natural light.
Significantly reduce watering frequency during indoor overwintering; allow the soil to become moderately dry between waterings as the plant enters a semi-dormant state. Ideal indoor temperatures range from above 55°F at night to 70°F or higher during the day. Before moving plants indoors, inspect them thoroughly for pests to prevent introducing them into the home.
Spring Revival and Post-Winter Care
As spring approaches, Pride of Barbados plants begin their revival. For in-ground plants, new shoots typically emerge from the roots in mid-spring, even if top growth died back entirely during winter. Potted plants overwintered indoors can gradually be reintroduced to outdoor conditions once the threat of frost has passed.
Once new growth is evident and outdoor temperatures are consistently warm, resume regular watering and fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in spring supports vigorous new growth and flowering. Pruning any dead or damaged stems from winter encourages healthy new shoots and helps shape the plant. While Pride of Barbados can be slow to return in spring, its rapid growth once established allows it to quickly regain its vibrant presence.