Definition

Noun 1. A tropical shrub or small tree (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) native to the tropics and subtropics, widely cultivated for its showy, brightly colored flowers with prominent, long red stamens. It is also known by other common names such as pride of Barbados, red bird of paradise, and dwarf poinciana.

Usage Notes

• The term "peacock flower fence" specifically refers to the plant itself. It is a compound noun where "peacock flower" describes the type of flower (vivid and showy, like a peacock's tail) and "fence" suggests its common use as a hedging or screening plant.
• It is primarily used in horticultural, botanical, and gardening contexts.
• The name is most common in certain regions, like parts of the Caribbean and Asia. In other areas, alternative common names are more frequently used.

Examples

• The peacock flower fence in our garden is in full bloom, attracting many butterflies.
• For a vibrant and drought-tolerant hedge, consider planting a peacock flower fence.
• Botanists studied the medicinal properties of the peacock flower fence.

Advanced Usage

• The plant can be referred to metonymically by its striking feature: "A blaze of orange and red, the peacock flower fence marked the boundary of the property."

Variants and Related Words

• Pride of Barbados: A more widely used common name for the same plant.
• Red Bird of Paradise: Another common name, emphasizing the flower's shape and color.
• Dwarf Poinciana: A name comparing it to the larger royal poinciana tree ().
• Caesalpinia pulcherrima: The scientific (Latin) binomial name.

Synonyms

• Flamboyant tree (Note: This can also refer to , so context is key)
• Barbados pride
• Flower fence (a shortened, less specific form)

Related Phrases/Idioms

• (No specific idioms or phrasal verbs are commonly associated with this botanical term.)

Noun

1. East Indian tree with racemes of yellow-white flowers; cultivated as an ornamental