Red Bird of Paradise
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Explosive orange-red bloom all summer. Dies back in winter, returns strong.
Charles J. Sharp / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 — license
Schedule: Weekly to twice-weekly in summer, less in cooler months.
Emitters: 1–2 emitters per shrub adjusted seasonally.
Most desert-adapted shrubs prefer drying out between waterings.
Arizona yards have very different microclimates. West-facing walls, glass, artificial turf, pavers, travertine, porcelain, and pool decking all increase reflected heat. AE considers these before confirming placement.
- Low root impact
AE verifies pool deck, paver, foundation, wall, and utility clearances before final planting.
Quick Facts
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Mature size
- 6–10 ft tall and wide
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water use
- Low
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Flower color
- Red-orange
- Evergreen / Deciduous
- Deciduous
- Thorns / spines
- Mild
- Litter level
- Medium
- Pool area
- Use with care
- Pet/kid placement
- Use with care
- Maintenance
- Seasonal pruning
- Privacy value
- Medium
- Shade value
- Low
- Native
- Desert-adapted
About Red Bird of Paradise
A bold, hot-color shrub that draws hummingbirds. Cut back hard in winter.
Best uses: Bold summer color
AE Designer Opinion
Design Uses
- Accent color
- Back of bed
- Pollinator garden
Care & Maintenance
- Cut back to 12 inches in winter
- Low water
- Full sun
Pairs Well With
- Red Yucca
- Lantana
- Desert Willow
More Arizona Plants Like This
Ready to Build Your AE Plant Wishlist?
Add Red Bird of Paradise and your other favorites to your wishlist, then send it to the AE design team for the final plant palette.