Legumes, Milkworts, and Allies of Zihuatanejo

ORDER FABALES

-Legumes (Family Fabaceae)

-Peacock Flower

-Subfamily Caesalpinioideae

-Tribe Caesalpinieae

-Genus Caesalpinia

-Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)

The Peacock Flower or Pride of Barbados is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is a member of the Fabaceae or legume family. It is originally from Mexico and the Caribbean and has beautiful showy orange-red flowers, fern-like leaves, and prickles on its stems and branches. In South America, indigenous tribes used the juice from the plant to treat fever, heal sores, and relieve coughing. In Mexico, the green seed pods are cooked and eaten. The plant has also been used to make inks and dyes.

• Description

Caesalpinia pulcherrima, commonly known as pride of Barbados, peacock flower, or red bird of paradise, is a flowering shrub or small tree in the legume family (Fabaceae). It has finely divided, fern-like leaves and showy clusters of flowers, usually red and orange with prominent protruding stamens. Yellow-flowered forms also occur. Its flattened seed pods turn brown as they mature. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental because of its colourful flowers and long flowering season.

Range

• Caesalpinia pulcherrima is native to tropical America, including the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America; its original range is not precisely established. It is widely cultivated and naturalized in warm regions worldwide. It is commonly grown in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny, warm environments, including dry tropical woodland, scrub, gardens, roadsides, and disturbed ground. It prefers well-drained soil and tolerates heat and seasonal dry conditions. Its bright flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.