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bird-of-paradise shrub
Scientific Name: Caesalpinia gilliesii
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub, Vine
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Caesalpinia gilliesii: Bird-of-Paradise Shrub
Caesalpinia gilliesii is a captivating shrub belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae). While commonly known as Bird of Paradise, it's important to note that this plant is not related to the Strelitzia genus, which also carries the Bird of Paradise name. It is also known as Yellow Bird of Paradise and Desert Bird of Paradise.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Caesalpinia gilliesii (Wall. ex Hook.) Benth.
- Synonyms: Poinciana gilliesii, Erythrostemon gilliesii
- Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
- Group: Dicot
- Taxonomic Rank: Shrub
Considerations for Pets
- This plant may be found in gardens and landscapes.
Considerations for Children
- This plant may be found in gardens and landscapes.
- Caesalpinia gilliesii has flowers with long red stamens.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to tropical South America, particularly Argentina and Uruguay.
- Well-adapted to the low desert regions, such as Arizona.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Typically grows as an upright, fast-growing small tree or large shrub, reaching up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide.
- Deciduous in colder climates, acting as a returning die-back shrub in milder winters.
- Known for its clusters of bright yellow flowers with striking long red stamens.
- Natural growth habit is often irregular and open, with sparse foliage.
Ecological Role
- Well-suited to arid climates and drought-resistant conditions.
Cultivation and Care
- Thrives in full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil.
- Tolerant of most soil types.
- Can be grown as a specimen planting or as a shrub in a mixed border.
Quirky Facts
- The flowers resemble the bright plumage of a tropical bird.