Caesalpinia gilliesii (Bird of Paradise Shrub)

Fast-growing and tough, Caesalpinia gilliesii (Bird of Paradise Shrub) is a vase-shaped evergreen shrub or small tree boasting flamboyant clusters of yellow flowers in summer. Borne at the branch tips, the five-petaled blossoms, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), feature long, protruding red stamens that create an exotic look. Attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, they give way to flat seed pods, up to 2 in. long (5 cm), containing dark brown to black seeds. These pods dry and split open, releasing the dark brown seeds, sometimes explosively. The foliage of lacy, feathery gray-green leaves is evergreen in frost-free climates. Bird of Paradise Shrub is a fine choice for xeriscaping and makes a wonderful large accent shrub or flowering hedge.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 7-10 ft. tall and wide (2-3 m). This plant self-sows mildly.
• Performs best in full sun in moist, well-drained soils. Established plants have good drought tolerance.
• A charming addition to beds and borders, wall-side borders, hedges, city gardens, Mediterranean gardens, or containers.
• Prune to shape as needed.
• Virtually pest and disease free. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings.
• Native to Argentina, Uruguay.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats.