Contents
Description
Caesalpinia Cacalaco is a species of flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly referred to as Cacalaco, Mexican Bird of Paradise, Dwarf Poinciana, or Barbados Flower Fence.This shrub or small tree can grow up to 6 meters tall and produces yellow, red, or orange flowers with long stamens. The flowers bloom in clusters and are followed by brown seed pods that can stay on the plant for a long time.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————|————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Caesalpinia|| Species| Cacalaco|
Appearance
Caesalpinia Cacalaco has feathery, fern-like foliage that is bright green and pinnately compound. The leaves are up to 30 cm long and have 10-20 leaflets. The flowers are showy and have five petals that are arranged in a butterfly shape. They bloom during the summer and fall.The seed pods are flat, brown, and up to 10 cm long. The bark of the plant is gray and smooth, and the branches are thin and slightly drooping.
Care Guide
Caesalpinia Cacalaco is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It grows best in well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.- Fertilization: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun exposure.- Hardiness Zones: Caesalpinia Cacalaco is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caesalpinia Cacalaco is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Caesalpinia Cacalaco is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Caesalpinia Cacalaco toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Caesalpinia Cacalaco is toxic to pets if ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Q: Can Caesalpinia Cacalaco tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Caesalpinia Cacalaco can tolerate drought, but it prefers regular watering.
Q: Can Caesalpinia Cacalaco be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Caesalpinia Cacalaco can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How fast does Caesalpinia Cacalaco grow?
A: Caesalpinia Cacalaco is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its mature height.
Related Plants
– Caesalpinia pulcherrima- Caesalpinia gilliesii- Caesalpinia mexicana- Caesalpinia platyloba
References
– “Caesalpinia cacalaco.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b992.- “Caesalpinia cacalaco.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/70242/.- “Caesalpinia cacalaco.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Caesalpinia+cacalaco/1142.
