When living in Globe, Arizona, I used to hike the hills near our home and crossed a dry creek bed each time I went out. On the outer edges of the sandy wash grew open bushes with a sort of delicate appearance. In spring the bushes developed blossoms with red-orange stamen coming out from the center of the yellow flower. The plant is tough and fast growing to 10 feet in height and even when viewed in the natural multiple plant clusters it still gives an open, airy aspect. Planted as a single specimen draws more attention to the distinctive fem-type leaves and abundant flowers found on each individual plant.

It will be noticed on roadways, although it is now also considered a desert landscaping alternative for homeowners. Caesalpinia pulcherrima is the freeway species with the orange-red flowers and thicker leaves. This plant will actually make a desert hedge in a controlled environment. Since the bird of paradise grows naturally along stream beds which are dry most of the year, it is an indication it prefers being close to a water source and soil which drains well. Caesalpinia is an adapted nativer plant so it will survive drought conditions, however when watered on a maintained schedule, the plant will appear fuller and the blossoms healthier. Bees and hummingbirds will come to visit when those delicately bold blossoms waive in the slightest breeze.

Caesalpinia seed can be collected and placed in containers. Germination rate is high and transplanting usually successful. It is a legume like many desert plants and therefore nitrogen fixing which will be of benefit to other plants in the growing vicinity.