Caesalpinia pulcherrima var. white is an ornamental shrub of the Fabaceae family native to Mexico and Central America, characterized by elegant white flowers and fern-like foliage. Seeds have a hard, impermeable coat requiring scarification and soaking before sowing. While relatively easy to propagate from seed, germination can be variable and is sensitive to seed storage conditions.
Before sowing
Soaking scarified seeds in saltpetre solution (1 teaspoon to 1 litre of water) may improve germination. Newly harvested seeds have no dormancy; however, stored seeds may develop secondary dormancy after 6 months.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Select seeds from the proximal/median position within fruit pods for best germination rates. Soak water regularly if using the saltpetre pre-treatment method. Maintain consistent moisture during germination but avoid waterlogging. Newly harvested seeds germinate better than stored seeds; germination can decline significantly after 6 months of storage. Place seeds in warm conditions at 29°C (85°F) for optimal results. Light is not required for germination (neutral photoblastic). Germination is typically erratic even under ideal conditions.
Sources: Sheffield's Seed Company, Plant Flower Seeds, Dave's Garden, Research Gate publications on Caesalpinia pulcherrima seed germination, Missouri Botanical Garden, University of Florida IFAS
