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Bird of Paradise Shrub Wikimedia Commons
Fabaceae

Bird of Paradise Shrub

Caesalpinia gilliesii

Bold expression.

Family
Fabaceae
Genus
Caesalpinia
Native to
Argentina, Uruguay
Bloom season
Summer
Type
deciduous shrub
Height
6-10 ft
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
Water
low
Hardiness
8-11
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The dramatic red stamens extend 3 to 5 inches beyond the yellow petals, creating a firework-like effect.
  • Despite its tropical appearance, this shrub is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established.
  • The seed pods are toxic if ingested and can cause gastrointestinal distress in humans and animals.
  • It was named after Scottish botanist John Gillies who collected plants in South America in the 1820s.
  • Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators, attracted by the long, nectar-rich flower tubes.

Color meanings

0

freedom

1

paradise

2

magnificence

Uses

  • xeriscape gardens
  • ornamental shrub
  • hummingbird gardens