Water
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter. Avoid waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent issues.
Also known as Aigrette · Barbados Flower · Barbados Flower-Fence
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Peacock flower (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a vibrant, flowering shrub native to tropical regions, admired for its showy, multicolored blooms.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Light
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter. Avoid waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent issues.
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and remove spent flower stalks. Harder pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Remove any dead or damaged branches promptly.
Propagate primarily by seeds, which germinate readily after soaking in warm water. Seeds can be sown in spring. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-ripe wood in summer and rooted in a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Caesalpinia |
| Species | Caesalpinia pulcherrima |
Similar in genus Caesalpinia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data