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James' Caesalpinia

Pomaria jamesii

Last reviewed: August 2026

James' Caesalpinia (Pomaria jamesii)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Toxicity unknown

James' Caesalpinia (Pomaria jamesii) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CO, KS, MO and 4 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Pomaria jamesii is a compact native perennial that forms neat clumps of delicate, fern-like foliage. It produces clusters of small orange to red flowers from May through July, creating bright color accents in drought-tolerant gardens. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

James' Caesalpinia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The colorful flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the summer blooming period. Its compact size makes it valuable for supporting pollinators in smaller garden spaces.

Common questions

How much sun does James' Caesalpinia need?
James' Caesalpinia grows best in full sun conditions.
When does James' Caesalpinia bloom?
James' Caesalpinia blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is James' Caesalpinia native?
James' Caesalpinia (Pomaria jamesii) is native to AZ, CO, KS, MO and 4 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does James' Caesalpinia attract?
James' Caesalpinia draws bees and butterflies.
Is James' Caesalpinia HOA-friendly?
James' Caesalpinia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow James' Caesalpinia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz