Royal Poinciana

delonix regia

Also known as: ["Flamboyant Tree","Peacock Flower","Flame Tree"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Delonix Category: Trees

Overview

A large, deciduous tree known for its spectacular display of bright red or orange flowers, native to Madagascar.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Delonix
Botanical Name: Delonix regia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with good fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for light penetration.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil), leaf drop (stress or root issues).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even exposure.

Watering

every 7–14 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure drainage holes; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers frost-free conditions; tolerates brief dips to 40°F (4°C) but not sustained cold.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; adjust watering for heat.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer

Fertilize in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; seeds are more common and reliable for this species.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy seeds or cuttings.
  2. Prepare medium.
  3. Plant seeds or cuttings.
  4. Maintain moisture and warmth.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Seeds may germinate in 2–8 weeks; cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks and take several months to establish.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for better germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing branches; avoid excessive topping.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage flowering; focus on structural improvement.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth in cold; wilting, scorching, or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to frost damage or death in prolonged cold.

Solution: Protect with frost cloth in cold snaps; plant in a sheltered location; avoid watering before cold nights.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check soil nutrient levels; apply at recommended rates; water after fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during active growth; reduce or stop in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Delonix regia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron chlorosis, or stress from environmental factors like waterlogging or drought. It can also be a symptom of pest infestations or diseases.

Wilting in Delonix regia is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from overwatering or root rot. It can also result from severe pest infestations or disease affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Delonix regia are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to unsightly foliage and potential defoliation. Severe infections can weaken the plant and reduce its vigor.

Rotting in Delonix regia typically affects the roots or stem, often caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soil. This can lead to a decline in plant health, wilting, and eventual death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the seeds or pods of Delonix regia. While not highly toxic, ingestion should be prevented to avoid potential discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing seeds or pods; seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of seeds or pods by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption should be avoided to prevent discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep seeds and pods out of reach of dogs; consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

The seeds and pods of Delonix regia contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but caution should be exercised with consumption.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingesting seeds or pods; keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Royal Poinciana tree suitable for small gardens?

A: No, it is a large tree that requires ample space to grow.

Q: Does the Royal Poinciana require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Q: Are the seeds of the Royal Poinciana toxic?

A: Yes, the seeds and pods are mildly toxic if ingested.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–14 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Spanish Broom
View
Hairy Bird's-foot Trefoil
View
Yellow Broom
View
Spiny Ebenus
View