Delonix regia, commonly known as Royal Poinciana or Flamboyant Tree, is a stunning flowering tree prized for its vibrant blooms and tropical beauty. Native to Madagascar, this deciduous tree is celebrated for its showy display of red, orange, or yellow flowers, which adorn its branches in summer, creating a spectacle of color in Australian landscapes.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 5 to 12 meters when mature.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 5 to 10 meters.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: Royal Poinciana prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but requires good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The tree features fern-like, bipinnate leaves that are bright green in color and provide a delicate and airy appearance. The foliage emerges after flowering and persists through the growing season, providing a lush backdrop for the tree's spectacular blooms.
• Growth Habit: Royal Poinciana has an open, spreading growth habit with a broad, umbrella-like canopy. It typically forms a single trunk with ascending branches that arch gracefully outward, creating a symmetrical and picturesque silhouette.

Flower Description

• Flowers: Royal Poinciana produces large, showy clusters of flowers in summer, typically in shades of red, orange, or yellow. The flowers have five spoon-shaped petals and a central cluster of stamens, creating a striking and exotic appearance. The blooms attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, adding to the tree's allure and ecological value.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering during the establishment period to encourage deep root development. Once established, Royal Poinciana is moderately drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering, except during prolonged dry periods or hot weather.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny conditions and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
• Temperature: Royal Poinciana is well-suited to warm, tropical climates and thrives in regions with mild winters and hot summers. It is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and may require protection or shelter in cooler climates.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote airflow within the canopy. Royal Poinciana generally requires minimal pruning but benefits from occasional grooming to remove spent flowers and improve aesthetics.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for flowering trees and shrubs in spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Royal Poinciana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if issues arise.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen tree, focal point, or shade tree in gardens, parks, and landscapes. Royal Poinciana adds tropical flair and dramatic color to outdoor spaces, making it a popular choice for coastal gardens, tropical-themed landscapes, and urban parks.

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