The Red bird of paradise is a remarkable flowering shrub that provides reliable, showy blooms for a long period of time, even in triple-digit heat.
With a high tolerance for heat and low to moderate water needs, this flower quickly gained popularity in warm and dry places like Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.
If youd like to add bright color and unique texture to your garden that doesnt require much maintenance, the Red bird of paradise should be on your list!
Other names: Barbados flower fence, Barbados Pride, Dwarf poinciana, Mexican bird of paradise, Peacock flower, Red Mexican bird of paradise
The red bird of paradise flower (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is one of the most vibrant and eye-catching tropical flowers you can grow. With its brilliant orange-red blooms and lush, fern-like foliage, it’s easy to see why gardeners covet this plant.
In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for the red bird of paradise, from ideal growing conditions to troubleshooting common problems. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, read on to learn how to successfully raise these stunning flowers.
The red bird of paradise, also known by its scientific name Caesalpinia pulcherrima, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to tropical regions of South America It’s a member of the Fabaceae family and can grow up to 10 feet tall in frost-free environments
This plant is known for its long-lasting bright red-orange flowers that bloom from spring through fall. The blooms emerge in large, upright clusters atop elongated stalks. Each flower has five petals – three upright petals forming the bird’s “head” and two lower petals forming the “tail feathers.”
The red bird of paradise gets its common name from its uncanny resemblance to a bird in flight when in full bloom It’s also sometimes called Barbados pride, pride of Barbados, or peacock flower due to its showy blooms.
Beyond its vibrant flowers, this plant has lush, fern-like leaves that add greenery and texture to gardens year-round. It thrives in hot, arid climates and needs little care once established.
Growing Conditions for Red Bird of Paradise
To get the most flowers and healthy growth from your red bird of paradise, provide the following growing conditions:
Sun Exposure
- Thrives in full sun – at least 6 hours/day
- Can tolerate light shade but may bloom less
- Avoid planting in dense shade
Soil
- Prefers well-draining soil
- Loam, sand, or gravelly soils are ideal
- Avoid heavy, wet soils that don’t drain well
Water
- Drought tolerant once established
- Water 1-2 times per week in extreme heat
-Reduce watering frequency in cooler weather - Allow soil to partially dry between waterings
Temperature & Humidity
- Prefers hot, humid tropical climates
- Can withstand temps above 30°F
- Does well in USDA zones 9-11
- High humidity encourages lush growth
Fertilizer
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring
- Organic options like compost or fish emulsion also work well
- Avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots
Planting Red Bird of Paradise
When planting red bird of paradise, start with high quality nursery transplants if possible. Growing from seed is challenging and will take years to flower.
Follow these tips when transplanting:
- Select a site with full sun and well-draining soil
- Space plants 5-6 feet apart to allow for mature size
- Dig a hole 2x as wide and deep as the plant’s root ball
- Place the plant in the hole and backfill with native soil
- Water thoroughly after planting and as needed until established
Container planting is also an option. Use a 15-20 inch diameter pot with drainage holes. Use a quality potting mix and fertilize regularly in containers. Bring plants indoors or protect from frost in winters.
Care and Maintenance
Red bird of paradise requires minimal care once settled into the garden. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Water 1-2 times per week in hot weather, less in cooler months
- Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 months during growing season
- Prune spent flower stalks back to an outward facing bud after blooming
- Remove dead or damaged leaves/stems as needed for a tidy appearance
- Protect from frost and freezing temperatures which can damage plants
- Propagate by seed or stem cuttings to make new plants
- Watch for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs and treat any infestations promptly
With the right growing conditions and proper care, the red bird of paradise will reward you with non-stop color in the garden. It’s a tough, low maintenance plant that attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators. Add a few of these beauties to your landscape for a taste of the tropics at home.
Common Problems With Red Bird of Paradise
While generally resilient, red bird of paradise plants can occasionally suffer from a few issues. Here are some potential problems and how to fix them:
Poor Flowering
Causes: Too much shade, over-fertilization, improper pruning, cool temps
Solutions: Move to a sunny location, reduce fertilizer, prune properly, provide warmth
Leaf Spotting/Discoloration
Causes: Fungal disease, bacterial infections, mineral deficiencies
Solutions: Improve air circulation, treat with fungicides/bactericides, amend soil
Failure to Thrive
Causes: Improper planting, poor drainage, underwatering, cold weather
Solutions: Replant properly, amend soil, adjust watering, move to warmer area
Aphids, Mites, and Other Pests
Solutions: Treat with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps, attract beneficial insects like ladybugs
With attentive care and prompt treatment of any problems, you can enjoy season after season of vibrant red blooms from this tropical favorite.
Tips for Maximizing Red Bird of Paradise Blooms
Here are a few tips to encourage the most prolific flowering from red bird of paradise plants:
- Site in full sun and provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Warm temperatures, ideally above 70°F, will boost flowering
- Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer which promotes foliage over blooms
- Water thoroughly during hot, dry periods to hydrate plants
- Prune spent blooms diligently to encourage new flower spikes
- Protect from heavy frost or freezes which can damage flower buds
- Allow plants to become well-established before expecting many blooms
- Divide mature plants every few years to rejuvenate growth and flowering
Stunning Varieties of Red Bird of Paradise to Grow
While the classic orange-red flowering type is most common, there are also some stunning varieties of red bird of paradise to consider:
- Pride of Barbados – Vibrant red-orange blooms on compact, dense shrubs
- Dwarf Poinciana – A petite variety perfect for containers; bright orange blooms
- African Sunset – Bold red and orange bi-color blooms on a medium-sized plant
- Bush Allamanda – Clusters of bright yellow flowers; great accent plant
- Arabian Night – Dark maroon foliage and deep orange-red blooms
Look for these red bird of paradise varieties at specialty nurseries or online retailers. With the right selection, you can create a vibrant and eye-catching tropical garden display.
Enjoy the Brilliant Red Bird of Paradise in Your Garden
With its rainbow-hued blooms and lush foliage, the red bird of paradise lives up to its name by providing non-stop color. By following the tips above, you’ll be rewarded with a hardy and fast-growing shrub that thrives with minimal care.
Be sure to provide plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, occasional fertilization, and protection from frost. Sit back and watch the magic happen as exotic flowers attract hummingbirds and transform your landscape into a tropical oasis. The red bird of paradise is truly a gem for gardens anywhere its hardy enough to grow.
/Birdofparadiseflower-GettyImages-1028521532-7565ee643e2749fd8bb7bb299b42845f.jpg)
Red bird of paradise Landscaping Tips
The red bird of paradise attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Very heat-resistant. Popular in areas such as the Coachella Valley, Las Vegas, and Phoenix that experience extreme heat.
Long blooming season, from spring to fall in the Coachella Valley.
Plant in full sun for maximum blooms. Partial shade is ok in very hot regions.
Very robust and vigorous. Quickly grows back after frost or heavy pruning.
To keep the plant to the desired size, you can cut the Red of paradise down to a couple of feet from the ground when it is dormant in winter.
Small thorns are sharp. Handle with gloves.
Very low maintenance. Not prone to pests, does not require continued pruning, and does not require lots of fertilizer to bloom.
Red bird of paradise Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile. The red bird of paradise is not a heavy feeder and tolerates poor soil. However, for best blooms, fertilize lightly during the growing season.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures slightly below frost (=32 degrees) for a short period of time. Will die back during frost, but will recover as long as the damage is not severe.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in the Palm Springs area.
AZ Plant Reviews: Red Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
FAQ
How do you take care of a red bird of paradise?
Water. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to mostly dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. Pro tip: Birds of Paradise can benefit from filtered water or water left out overnight before using.
What is the red bird of paradise flower?
The flowers are a brilliant mix of orange to red colored clusters with long stamens. Some varieties have yellow or orange tips on the flower petals or pure yellow flowers. Red bird of paradise makes an excellent accent shrub that is incredibly heat tolerant.
How many times a year does a bird of paradise flower?
Blooming season: The flowers are produced in succession, typically from late fall to late spring, depending on the species, latitude, and climate. In the right conditions, they can bloom year-round. A healthy, mature Bird of Paradise plant can produce up to 36 flower spikes per year.
What is the difference between a Mexican bird of paradise and a red bird of paradise?
Although they have similar appearances and care needs, some differences are that the Red bird of paradise has darker colored flowers and smaller leaflets compared to the Mexican bird of paradise. Also, the Mexican bird of paradise can tolerate cooler temperatures.
What is a bird of paradise flower?
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.
What is a red bird of paradise plant?
If you’ve got a bare spot in your garden that is simply begging for a large fuss-free plant to fill the space and provide some color, red bird of paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) may be the plant for you. Red bird of paradise is a large shrub with fern-like leaves and stalks of brilliant yellow, orange, and red flowers from spring through fall.
What bird of Paradise looks like a red bird of Paradise?
Yellow bird of paradise (Caesalpinia gilliesii) looks much like the red bird of paradise, except it has yellow flowers. Also, there is a cultivar of red bird of paradise called Phoenix bird of paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima ‘Phoenix’) that looks identical and requires the same care, except it has yellow flowers!
Which bird of Paradise has yellow flowers?
Also, there is a cultivar of red bird of paradise called Phoenix bird of paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima ‘Phoenix’) that looks identical and requires the same care, except it has yellow flowers! Mexican bird of paradise (Erythrostemon mexicanus, formerly Caesalpinia mexicana) also has yellow flowers.
Is red bird of Paradise a good xeriscaping shrub?
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.
Is red bird of Paradise a heat tolerant plant?
Red bird of paradise makes an excellent accent shrub that is incredibly heat tolerant. Red Bird of Paradise grows best in full sun locations and in soil that drains well. It does not do well in heavy clay soils. Regular irrigations will help this plant maintain its vigor.