Delonix Regia

Description

Delonix Regia, commonly known as the flamboyant tree or royal poinciana, is a tropical tree native to Madagascar. It is known for its stunning display of red, orange, or yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, adding a splash of color to any landscape. The tree can grow up to 40 feet tall and has a broad, flat crown that can span up to 60 feet wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of the Delonix Regia are fern-like and can grow up to 20 inches long. The flowers, which bloom in clusters, are large and showy, with four or five petals that are slightly ruffled at the edges. The color of the flowers varies between different cultivars, ranging from deep red to orange and yellow. The tree produces long, woody seed pods that can grow up to two feet in length and contain several seeds.

Care Guide

Delonix Regia requires regular watering during the growing season and prefers well-draining soil. The tree should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It requires full sun to thrive and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In cooler climates, the tree can be grown in a container and brought indoors during the winter months.

Common Pests & Diseases

Delonix Regia is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. It is important to ensure good drainage and proper air circulation to prevent these diseases from taking hold. The tree can also be attacked by spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Delonix Regia is native to Madagascar but has been introduced to many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is commonly found in parks, gardens, and along streets, where its stunning flowers can be enjoyed by all. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Delonix Regia a fast-growing tree?

A: Yes, Delonix Regia is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 5 feet per year under ideal conditions.

Q: Can Delonix Regia be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Delonix Regia can be grown in a container and brought indoors during the winter months in cooler climates.

Q: How often should Delonix Regia be fertilized?

A: Delonix Regia should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What is the best time of year to prune Delonix Regia?

A: Delonix Regia should be pruned in the winter while it is dormant to remove any dead or damaged branches.

Related Plants

• Caesalpinia pulcherrima
• Cassia fistula
• Tabebuia rosea
• Tabebuia chrysotricha

References

• “Delonix Regia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b528
• “Delonix Regia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st687
• “Flamboyant (Delonix Regia).” Purdue University Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Delonix_regia.html