Print This Page
Caesalpinia gilliesii - Bird-of-Paradise from Mortellaros
Bird-of-Paradise
Hardy Bird of Paradise
Caesalpinia gilliesii
Hardy Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia gilliesii, not Strelitzia reginae) is a popular choice for Texas landscapes due to its vibrant yellow flowers with long red stamens and fern-like foliage. Typically, this deciduous shrub needs to be given location consideration as it reaches an average height and spread of about 6-9 feet. It is known for its moderate growth rate and can be pruned to maintain a more compact form if desired.
Bird of Paradise thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal blooming. It is well-suited for the hot Texas climate, as it has low water requirements once established. It is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping or low-water-use gardens. In terms of soil, it prefers well-draining conditions but can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor, sandy soils.
It has been known to withstand temperatures down to 20F, dying back to the roots even in zero degrees, which has become an issue in Texas in the early 2020’s, showing better hardiness than the Pride of Barbados, Caesalpinia pulcherrima.
 |
Hardier than other Caesalphinia |
|
Large Perennial Shrub |
|
Attracts birds, bees, and butterflies |
Flower Color:Yellow
|
 |
Height6-9 ft
|
|
Spread6-9 ft
|
Characteristics & Attributes
|
Deer Tolerance
|
Exposure
|
Habit
|
Soil pH Preference
|
|
Water Needs
|
Toxic to Pets
|
