Pride of Barbados
Few plants stop traffic like Pride of Barbados, whose clusters of flame-orange and yellow blooms blaze from summer straight through autumn.
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The Tropics in a Single Shrub
Pride of Barbados is native to the tropical Americas and West Indies and has naturalized across warm regions worldwide. It holds the distinction of being the national flower of Barbados, where its vivid blooms have long symbolized pride and resilience. In the garden it behaves as an evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub in truly frost-free climates and as a die-back perennial where light frosts occasionally occur.
The flowers are genuinely spectacular: loose racemes of ruffled blooms in orange, red, and yellow with long, dramatically extended red stamens that hummingbirds and butterflies find irresistible. Plants can reach 10-15 ft under ideal conditions, forming a billowing, fine-textured canopy of bipinnate leaves that lends a feathery, tropical look even when not in bloom.
Planting & care
Plant in full sun and well-drained soil; Pride of Barbados is not fussy about soil fertility or pH and actually performs better in lean, even rocky conditions than in rich amended beds. Dig a hole only as deep as the root ball and twice as wide, set the crown at grade, and water in thoroughly. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture without retaining excessive dampness around the base.
Once established, this shrub is remarkably drought-tolerant and requires little supplemental irrigation except during prolonged dry spells. In Zone 8 or 9 where frost knocks it back, cut stems to the ground in late winter - it typically re-sprouts vigorously from the roots. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer; heavy feeding encourages leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Prune to shape immediately after a flush of bloom.
Caution: Toxic Seeds
Every part of Caesalpinia pulcherrima is considered toxic if ingested, and the seed pods contain particularly potent compounds. Keep children and pets away from fallen pods, and wear gloves when pruning to avoid contact with the sap, which can irritate sensitive skin. Despite its beauty, site it thoughtfully in households with curious kids or animals.
How much sun does Pride of Barbados need?
Pride of Barbados grows best in full sun.
How often should you water Pride of Barbados?
Give it about 0.5-1 in per week once established; drought-tolerant.