flame tree
Delonix regia
None
About this plant
Delonix regia, commonly called the flame tree or royal poinciana, is famous for its bright red-orange flowers that cover the tree in summer, creating a striking display. It has a broad, spreading canopy with fern-like leaves, making it a popular ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions. It is often planted for shade and decorative purposes in parks and gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Delonix
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Higher classification
- Fabales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Madagascar
- Distribution
- Native to Madagascar, widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world including parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season, especially when young. Once established, the tree is drought tolerant and requires less frequent watering.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and flowering. Fertilize once or twice during the growing season for best results.
Delonix regia is a fast-growing tree that thrives in warm, sunny locations. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Regular watering is needed during its early growth, but overwatering should be avoided. It requires minimal maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Bright red-orange flowers, fern-like leaves, broad spreading canopy
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to plant in family gardens.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Delonix regia, also known as the flame tree, produces pollen that can cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as sneezing or itchy eyes. People with pollen allergies should avoid close contact during its flowering season to reduce exposure.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot from overwatering and leaf drop if exposed to cold temperatures or poor drainage. Pests are generally not a major issue but watch for occasional aphids or caterpillars.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental tree for shade and its spectacular flowers in parks, gardens, and along streets.
Notes
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Protect young trees from strong winds. Not suitable for indoor growing due to size.