Caesalpinia

This large group of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and vines are natives to tropical and subtropical countries, especially South America. They can be grown outdoors in mild climates only. They need plenty of room for their roots to grow, therefore, they aren't suitable for growing in containers. These plants have pretty flowers and attractive, bipinnate leaves. C. japonica forms a large shrub that is equipped with formidable spines and clothed with bright green, pinnate leaves. In mid-summer, racemes consisting of 20 to 30, pea-shaped flowers are borne. They are brilliant yellow with scarlet stamens.

Pot Cultivation

These plants need sunny, sheltered locations in well-drained, loamy soil. In the spring, stray branches may be cut back.

Propagation

Lower branches may be layered in the spring. Seeds may also be sown, after they've been soaked for 24 hours in tepid water, in sandy soil. The small plants can be transplanted to small pots, and when they've filled these up with roots, to their permanent positions.

VARIETIES

C. japonica.