click on logo to return to main page

Delonix regia

The Royal Poinciana tree is native to Madagascar and is considered to be among the top 5 most beautiful flowering trees in the world. It may be the most colorful flowering tree in the world as well. It blooms large trusses of 4 " orange to scarlet flowers with white or yellow markings in late spring or early summer. Royal Poinciana is rated zone 10, but may do well in warm climates like zone 9 and other warmer areas where bodies of water or ocean mitigate cold nights. Royal Poinciana is tolerant of some salt drift, not fussy as to soil, is not bothered by pests. The tree is deciduous for about 2 months in winter then leaves return in early spring. In May or June, red blooms appear in profusion and will typically hold for 4-10 weeks. Royal Poinciana is rated to 40 feet but 30 is more common, with width nearly matches height. During hot months the Royal Poinciana's leaves provide "broken" shade beneath, a perfect growing situation for plantings that require shifting light and protection from the sun. Because of the filtered light situation, lawn grasses grow well underneath.

Royal Poinciana trees are difficult to obtain, and large, landscape size trees can cost between three and five hundred dollars...before installation. They are drought tolerant, which is an added feature where water is scarce or use restricted. Without doubt, this tree is an investment that will affect great return visually and add to a home's value. This is one of those trees that in time becomes a landmark.

Propagation is done via seed gathered from seed pods measuring up to 2 feet long (60 cm). The seeds, that are bean size are covered with a shiny finish. Germinating the seeds can be a problem, you can use fresh seeds and file them to remove the shine before soaking them for 24 hours. Dip them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, and let them overnight in warm water (110 degrees). Plant in moist soil, the seeds usually germinate in a week.

The Royal Poincianas offered are approx. 36" tall and rootbound in a 10 - 12" pot. They are ready to be moved to a larger container, or be placed directly in the garden. Please email Liz at efichtl@tampabay.rr.com to arrange for pickup. Price is 30.00 in cash, please. Thank you!