Exotic : Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia Pulcherrima)

Half-hardy Tree

• Flowers in : April to October
• Germination : Challenging
• Aftercare : Particular Care Required
• Ideal for : Borders, Conservatories
• Height : 20 feet

Description

Beautifully fringed, orange and red blooms cover this magnificent,West Indian shrub with deeply divided foliage.

Sowing Instructions

Sow March to May. Soak seed in warm water for 24 hours before sowing. Sow into pots or trays of moist soilbased potting mix and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68- 77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination can take 1-4 months.

Growing Instructions

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots of soil-based potting mix.

When well grown, pot on as required and grow in well-lit conditions. In warmer regions, plants can be grown outdoors in a sunny border. In cooler regions, grow in pots in the greenhouse or conservatory, or outdoors with winter protection. Ensure a minimum winter temperature of 13-18C (55-64F).

Aftercare

Feed plants with liquid fertiliser monthly, and water sparingly in winter. Remove faded flowers after blooming, and trim back growth as required.