Royal Poinciana

(Delonix regia)

Royal Poinciana (Delonix regia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Delonix regia, commonly known as Royal Poinciana or Flamboyant Tree, is a deciduous tree native to the dry deciduous forests and savannahs of Madagascar. It typically grows to a modest height of 5 meters (15 feet) but can reach up to 12 meters (40 feet), with a widespread canopy that provides dense shade. The Royal Poinciana is renowned for its broad, umbrella-like form and its showy display of orange-red flowers during the summer months. The flowers are large and vibrant, with four scarlet or orange-red petals and a fifth petal called the standard, which is larger and marked with yellow and white. The foliage is fern-like, adding to its ornamental value.

The Royal Poinciana is valued for its stunning floral display and its ability to provide full shade, making it an excellent choice for tropical landscapes, urban parks, and as a street tree. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal care once established. The tree thrives in full sun and prefers open, free-draining sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic matter. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand salty conditions, but does not perform well in heavy or clay soils. It is most commonly propagated by seeds. Gardeners should be aware that Delonix regia can become invasive outside its native range and should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 40-70 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Orange, Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Dry deciduous forests and savannahs of Madagascar

Other Names

Common Names: Flamboyant Tree, Flame Of The Forest, Flame Tree, Phoenix Tree, Red Flame, Flamboyant, Flame-Of-The-Forest, Flametree, Peacock-Flower, Flamboyán

Scientific Names: , Delonix regia, Delonix regia var. flavida, Poinciana regia, Delonix regia subsp. flavida, Caesalpinia regia, Delonix regia subsp. genuina, Delonix regia var. genuina,

GBIF Accepted Name: Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf.