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Conservatory GreenhouseShrubs

Erythrostemon gilliesii
  • RHS AGM

bird of paradise

A large evergreen shrub or small tree, with 2-pinnate leaves composed of tiny oblong leaflets, and showy yellow flowers 3cm across, with long crimson stamens

Other common names
crimson threadflower
poinciana
Synonyms
Caesalpinia gilliesii
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Red Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Chile to Uruguay

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow outdoors in full sun in a frost-free area in moist but well-drained soil. Under glass grow in loam-based compost in full light. Plants under glass may need a restrictive prune after the first flush of flowers

Propagation

Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, glasshouse whitefly and mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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