Caesalpinia pulcherrima, commonly known as the pride of Barbados, (Also known as the flower fence, peacock flower, or dwarf poinciana) is the national flower of Barbados, and featured proudly on the country’s coat of arms.
The easy to grow flower thrives in the vibrant sun of the island and typically blooms in a striking red with margins yellow, but can be found in pink, orange, or yellow varieties, though the red and yellow flower is accepted as the national flower.
The pride of Barbados can be found as a tree or as a shrub, with the pruned shrubs seeing use as a fence between fields. The plant also has a history in the folk medicine of Barbados with many parts of the plant being used to remedy fevers and gastrointestinal issues, teas can be made from its flowers that were used to put young children to sleep, and the seeds and roots of the plant have been used as abortifacients.
