Southwest Plant of the Month – Desert bird-of-paradise – Caesalpinia gilliesii

Feb 14, 2021 | Plant of the Month

General Information

Plant Form Shrub Plant Size 8′ x 6′
Plant Type Deciduous Water Usage Low
  Sun, Partial Shade Colors Yellow


Physical Description 
Large yellow flowers with bright red stamens on open, angular branches with finely cut foliage. Blooms summer to fall.

Care and Maintenance: Stem die back requires pruning to remove deadwood. Strong smelling glandular foliage.

Gardener’s Notes:  South American plant naturalized in El Paso. Very tough plant that needs little or no supplemental water once established.

Information from NMSU Southwest Yard and Garden Plant Advisor