Caesalpinia

Sunset

Zones vary by species.

Full

Moderate, Minimal

Pods and seeds are poisonous if ingested.

Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Deciduous, Evergreen, Shrubs, Trees

Ferny-leafed plants grown for branch-end clusters of colorful blossoms featuring (except in the case of Caesalpinia platyloba) protruding stamens. Plants grow quickly and easily in hot, sunny locations if given light, well-drained soil and infrequent, deep watering. Prune before first flush of spring growth to remove any dead or damaged wood and wayward branches; remove lower limbs for treelike shape in shrubby species. Blooms attract hummingbirds.

Caesalpinia gilliesii

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Caesalpinia gilliesii

From South America. Tough, fast growing shrub to 10 ft. tall, 8 ft. wide, with finely cut foliage and rather open, angular branch structure. Blooms all summer, producing clusters of yellow flowers adorned with bright red stamens. The plant drops leaves in cold winters.