Caesalpinia californica - formerly Caesalpinia mexicana ssp. californica - Vara Prieta

Caesalpinia californica is a fast growing shrub, growing to 10 feet. Caesalpinia californica is native to Baja, and the desert Southwest, though its range does not extend into California. The former name is Caesalpinia mexicana ssp. californica. The common name is Vara Prieta. The yellow flowers and red seedpods contrasting with the grey foliage make Caesalpinia californica spectacular. The flowers attract butterflies like the California Dogface Butterfly and Cloudless Sulfur. They are a great addition to the hummingbird garden too. The seeds are poisonous unless properly prepared. Caesalpinia californica is in the pea family and the seeds come in a flattened red pod. Caesalpinia californica does well from the desert to the coast. Cold winter temperatures are the limiting factor, Caesalpinia californica is hardy into the low 20's° F. Caesalpinia californica is very drought tolerant and will do well with infrequent deep soakings.