Delonix regia (Flame tree)

Botanical names: Delonix regia, Poinciana regia

Common names: Flame tree, Flamboyant, Royal poinciana, Gul Mohr, Peacock Flower

Family: Fabaceae

Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae

Origin: Madagascar

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Hardiness: 30°F

Delonix regia is a fast-growing flowering tree from Madagascar in the Fabaceae family, subfamily Caesalpinioideae.

It is widely known as Flame Tree, Flamboyant, Royal Poinciana, Peacock Flower, and Gul Mohr.

This species grows 30 to 40 feet tall with a naturally broad, umbrella-like crown that can be twice as wide as the tree is tall.

It thrives in full sun and needs well-drained soil with moderate fertility.

The foliage consists of fine, fern-like compound leaves that create a soft green canopy.

These leaves are sensitive to seasonal changes and are typically shed during dry or cool periods.

In late spring or early summer, the tree bursts into vivid bloom, covering itself with large red to orange-red flowers.

Each flower has five petals, one often streaked with white or yellow, creating a striking contrast.

After flowering, long flattened seed pods develop, turning dark brown or black when mature.

Delonix performs best in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons but can adapt to more humid conditions.

Minimum cold tolerance is around 30F; young trees are vulnerable to frost damage.

This species is not edible and has no confirmed toxicity.

It differs from Caesalpinia pulcherrima and other tropical bloomers by its size, broad canopy, and distinctive flower shape.

Its surface roots may lift pavement or disturb nearby structures if planted too close.

Read article about delonix.

Varieties:

Delonix regia var. flavida

Delonix regia var. Golden

Watch video about this tree.

Similar plants: Delonix regia (Flame tree)

• Delonix elata (Mseele)
• Delonix floribunda (Baobab Poinciana)
• Delonix pumila (Dwarf Flamboyant)
• Delonix regia 'Flavida' (Golden Royal Poinciana)
• Delonix regia 'Golden' (Flame tree)
• Erythrostemon gilliesii (Yellow Bird of Paradise)