Caesalpinia gilliesii is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Fabaceae family. Its native range is from northern central Chile to Uraguay. Familiar names include Desert Bird of Paradise, Yellow Bird of Paradise, and Bird of Paradise Bush. It can grow to around 10 feet tall with smooth greenish-brown bark. The leaves are bipinnate much like a mimosa tree. The yellow flowers resemble orchid flowers with long red stamens. It prefers full sun when young and can survive light shade once older. Zones 8-11

Germination

Soak seeds for 24 hours in warm water. Sow 1" deep, tamp seeds into the soil, and lightly cover. Keep moist in a bright spot. Keep temperatures around 65-75F. Germination is in 30-60 days.