Caesalpinia pulcherrima, also known as “Red Bird of Paradise,” is an upright, evergreen, thorny shrub or small tree that blooms with showy clusters of up to 40 brilliant gold-to-orange flowers from spring to fall (or all year in tropical climates). Borne at the branch tips, the bowl-shaped flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), feature long red stamens that create an exotic look. Attractive to hummingbirds, they give way to flat seed pods, up to 4 in. long (10 cm), containing dark brown to black seeds. These pods dry and split open, releasing the dark brown seeds, sometimes explosively. The foliage of feathery green leaves is evergreen in frost-free climates. Red Bird of Paradise is a fine choice for xeriscaping and makes a wonderful large accent shrub. It has sharp thorns along its stems and forms an effective thorny barrier.
The vibrant red bird of paradise flower, also known by its botanical name Caesalpinia pulcherrima, is a stunning and popular flowering shrub. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, this plant is prized for its long-lasting warm weather blooms and easy care. In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for the red bird of paradise flower.
The red bird of paradise is known for its vibrant, tropical looking blooms The flower clusters emerge in spring and last through fall, lighting up gardens with their glowing colors even through intense summer heat The flowers feature pendulous red stamens surrounded by bright yellow and orange petals. This gives them an exotic, feathery appearance reminiscent of a bird in flight.
In addition to showy blooms, the red bird of paradise has attractive bluish-green, fern-like foliage. The leaves are actually made up of many tiny leaflets arranged in feather-like pairs along the stems. On more mature plants, the stems develop small thorns.
This flowering shrub has an upright, mounding shape and moderately fast growth rate. It reaches heights of 6 to 10 feet tall and spreads 6 to 10 feet wide when happy. The red bird of paradise works beautifully as a flowering accent or specimen planting. It also attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
Growing Conditions for Red Bird of Paradise
To get the most out of your red bird of paradise flowers provide these ideal growing conditions
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Full sun. The red bird of paradise thrives in full sun exposures. At least 6 hours of direct sun per day results in the heaviest flower production. A little afternoon shade is okay in hot climates.
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Well-draining soil These plants need soil that drains freely to prevent soggy roots Clay soils should be amended with compost to improve drainage before planting.
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Minimal watering needs. Established red bird of paradise plants are quite drought tolerant. They only need occasional deep soakings during warmer months and rainfall the rest of the year.
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Moderate fertilizer. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every month or two during the growing season for optimal flowering and growth. Avoid over-fertilizing.
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Protection from frost. Red birds of paradise grow best in USDA Zones 9-11 and should be protected from hard freezes and frost. They recover well from brief light frost.
Planting Red Bird of Paradise
When planting a red bird of paradise, follow these tips:
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Select a site with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Amend clay soils if needed.
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Dig a hole 2-3 times the width of the root ball and about as deep.
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Place the plant in the hole and fill with soil, lightly tamping to remove air pockets.
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Water thoroughly until the soil is moistened. Let excess water drain.
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Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the stem.
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Stake newly planted shrubs if needed while roots establish.
Caring for Red Bird of Paradise Plants
To keep your red bird of paradise looking its best, provide consistent care:
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Water 1-2 times per month during warmer months, allowing the soil to partially dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter.
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Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Discontinue in winter.
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**Prune **any dead branches or spent flower clusters as needed to improve appearance.
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Check for pests like mealybugs and spider mites and treat any found immediately.
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Protect from frost by covering or moving potted plants indoors until the risk has passed.
How to Propagate Red Bird of Paradise
Propagating red bird of paradise from cuttings is quite simple:
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Take 6-8 inch stem cuttings from healthy, established plants in early summer.
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Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
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Plant the cuttings in pots filled with perlite, vermiculite, or a half potting soil and half perlite/vermiculite mix.
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Water to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
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Place in bright, indirect light and maintain warm temperatures.
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New roots and growth should emerge in approximately 4-6 weeks. Transplant to the garden after that.
Common Problems With Red Bird of Paradise
Red bird of paradise plants are not prone to many pests or diseases but may occasionally encounter:
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Mealybugs – Control with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays.
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Spider mites – Knock off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
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Root rot – Allow soil to dry adequately between waterings and improve drainage if needed.
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Leaf spot – Prune affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
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Frost damage – Protect plants from frost or use cold tolerant varieties if temperatures regularly drop below freezing in winter.
With proper siting, care, and maintenance, you can enjoy your vibrant red bird of paradise flowers for many years to come. The flashy blooms will add striking color and tropical flair to your landscape.
Alternative Plants to Consider
AZ Plant Reviews: Red Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
FAQ
Is there a Red Bird of Paradise?
How do you get Red Bird of Paradise to bloom?
What is the difference between Red Bird of Paradise and Mexican bird of paradise?
What is a red bird of Paradise?
The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources. Fast-growing, Caesalpinia pulcherrima (Red Bird of Paradise) is an upright evergreen thorny shrub or small tree boasting showy clusters of up to 40 brilliant gold-to-orange flowers from spring to fall (year-round in tropical climates).
Is a red bird of Paradise a shrub or a tree?
While both species are considered shrubs or small trees and both are evergreen in frost-free regions and deciduous in others, they are two different plants. Unlike the red bird of paradise, the Mexican variety has bright yellow flowers with long red stamens. The red bird of paradise has showy red blooms and fern-like foliage.
What does a red bird of paradise plant look like?
Not to be confused with the Strelitzia reginae Bird of Paradise plant, the Red Bird of Paradise will produce smaller flowers and bunches. Because it produces prickly thorns on its stem, it makes a beautiful plant as a hedge or barrier and also produces a lovely fragrance.
Is the Red Bird of Paradise a good garden plant?
The Red Bird of Paradise is a spectacular garden plant that is worth growing for its fantastic bright red blooms, as well as for its lovely fragrance. Delicate leaves and thin stems only add to their allure. In the correct climate, it is appreciated as landscaping plants.
