Family: Caesalpiniaceae

From the tropical regions of Asia, America and parts of Africa, these deciduous or evergreen trees, shrubs or climbers are grown for their exquisite red or yellow flowers which bloom all year in the right climate. Often prickly, they have mostly fern-like foliage, and the flat seed pods are quite a feature. There are at least 70 species of Caesalpinia, many cultivated for their timber in their native areas. Some are purely ornamental, but others are grown for dyes, tannins or medicines.

Species

C. coriaria, divi-divi, is a South American tree which grows to 10 m (33 ft). It has beautiful yellow flowers and reddish-coloured seed pods.

C. echinata is often known as Brazilian redwood and peachwood. The heartwood of these trees is used for making violin bows and the tree is also a source of red dye.

C. ferrea, leopard tree or Brazilian ironwood, is a deciduous tree, growing 10-12 m (33-40 ft) high. It has a rather vase-shaped open crown and the mottled bark of the trunk is very decorative. The foliage is red at first, becoming green as it matures. Yellow flowers bloom in spring, followed by flat pods which may be up to 10 cm (4 in) in length. It makes a good street tree and is an excellent small tree for home gardens.

C. gilliesii, bird of paradise, is also from South America. This rather prickly shrub produces striking, bird-like, yellow flowers, with long, silky, prominent, red stamens.

C. pulcherrima, Barbados pride or dwarf poinciana, is probably the species seen most often and is similar to C. sillic.sii. This shrub grows rapidly to 5 m (16 ft) and bears bright orange-yellow flowers with prominent, red stamens.

C. spinosa, or tara, is from Cuba and South America. A prickly-limbed small tree, it produces dense sprays of fragrant, yellow flowers.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Use soil-based potting compost and provide maximum light. Outdoors, Caesalpinia does well in a reasonably rich garden soil in a temperate climate, with full sun and plenty of water. Prune in winter to create an attractive shape. Propagate from seed in autumn or spring or from tip cuttings. Sow or plant in sand or vermiculite.

Climate

Zone 10 and above, but C. pulcherrirna can grow in zone 9.