Caesalpinia echinata - Plant

Planting and care

Prefers a well-drained, alkaline soil and a position in full sun. Established plants are very drought tolerant. Plants are fairly tolerant of salt-laden winds.

A moderately fast-growing tree, reaching a height of up to 2 metres within 2 years from seed.Plants begin to flower when around 3 - 4 years of age

Caring for Caesalpinia echinata

Organic mulch should be spread around Pride of Barbados plants when they are grown in the landscape. It should be 2 to 3 inches deep and cover the entire root zone. Keeping the mulch 6 inches away from the stems or trunk will help prevent damage to the bark from excessive, prolonged exposure to moisture.

Harvesting

Evergreen Tree

Typical uses of Caesalpinia echinata

Special features: The plant is classified as 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2011)

Culinary use: leaves

Ornamental use: it is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental and barrier plant

Medicinal use: The tree is commonly gathered from the wild and used locally as a medicinal and dye plant, and as a source of timber.
A charcoal made from the powdered bark is infused and used to treat diarrhoea in children.
The wood is odontalgic and tonic

References

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/caring-pride-barbados-plant-33515.html http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e498