The Mexican Bird Of Paradise plant is an ornamental plant which in Latin is called Caesalpinia mexicana. Growing ornamental plants is not as difficult as one might imagine, but many cannot distinguish it from other species. Indeed, growing this plant is the same between several species but there are subtle differences between the two so it’s important you know. By knowing the differences between species, you can get more leverage in cultivating them.
The difference between Red Bird of Paradise and Mexican Bird of Paradise
Mexican bird of paradise, or C. mexicana, is often confused with the red bird of paradise or C. pulcherrima. Many people are confused about how to distinguish between these two species of paradise plants. The mexico variety has bright yellow flowers with red stamens. Unlike Red bird paradise, it has flowers that are rather showy and have fern-like leaves. There is also a yellow variety called C. gilliesii, it is similar to the C. pulcherrima tree, except that the color is yellow instead of red.
Also see: Eucalyptus Gunnii, How to Grow It
All kinds of paradise plants bloom in summer, if you plant them in tropical season it can flower all year round. If you are interested, let’s take a look at how to grow a Mexican bird Paradise below.
How to Grow Mexican Bird of Paradise
Growing a Mexican bird of paradise plant and all its types is very easy, it’s just that you have to know what conditions are suitable for planting this tree. Mexican bird of paradise is great for planting as a barrier plant or you can plant it in a pot, especially in cold areas.
But before deciding to grow it, you have to think about its size. Mexocan bird paradise is a large plant that can grow up to 4.5 meters in height or width (spread). This flowering plant is drought tolerant and grows well in well-draining soil. Then, it needs full sun to flower a lot. If planted in a shaded place, then the flowers are not as many as plants that grow in full sun.
Give fertilizer and water every week until these plants can be independent or have grown. During the flowering period fertilization is also needed to make it healthier and can produce lots of flowers.
If you have grown healthy and are able to shade other plants, the Mexican Bird of Pradise no longer needs maximum care, you only need to prune it occasionally so that the plant remains tidy and can be adjusted its growth. Pruning is usually done in winter, when the plant is shed, the pruning is usually done at a height of one third of the ground. You can also just cut off the branches to shape the growth.
Also see: Adenium Desert Rose: Caring For Desert Rose Plants
If you plant it in a pot, it is very easy for winter care. When winter comes, you should put the pot in the room and prune it as needed.
