Propagating Red Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia) from Seed

Easy Legume Germination

Red bird of paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a heat-loving legume shrub, not related to true bird-of-paradise (Strelitzia). Seeds have hard coats that benefit from scarification.

Seed Preparation

1. Score the seed coat with a file or nick with nail clippers.
2. Soak in warm water for 24 hours (seeds swell).
3. Plant ½ inch deep in well-draining mix.
4. Keep warm (75-85°F) and moist.
5. Germination in 3-10 days.

Timing and Climate

• Start seeds in January for spring planting (zone 9+).
• In colder zones, grow as annuals or container plants.
• Dies back at 32°F but resprouts from roots if mulched (zone 8+).
• Thrives in hot, dry, desert conditions.

Growth Habit

• Fast-growing to 6-10 feet.
• Brilliant orange-red flowers all summer.
• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Self-seeds readily in favorable climates.

This is one of the easiest flowering shrubs from seed. The scarification step makes all the difference for quick, uniform germination.