Royal Poinciana Flower
Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf.
Royal poinciana produces breathtaking clusters of scarlet-orange flowers with delicate fern-like foliage, creating one of nature's most spectacular floral displays. Native to Madagascar, these magnificent blooms symbolize royalty, tropical majesty, and the vibrant beauty of summer.
Fabaceae (Legume family)
Late spring through summer (May-August in Northern Hemisphere); varies by region
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: powder puff flowers and yellow silk floss flowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Royal poinciana is widely considered one of the most beautiful flowering trees in the world. The common name honors M. de Poinci, a 17th-century governor of the French West Indies. In its native Madagascar, it is now endangered, but has been planted throughout tropical regions worldwide. The spectacular summer flowering display transforms entire landscapes into seas of flame-colored blooms. The genus name Delonix means "conspicuous claw," referring to the long-clawed petals. It appears on postage stamps of tropical nations and is beloved in cultures from India (where it's called Gulmohar) to the Caribbean.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for fullest flowering and best growth
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, water during severe droughts
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Clay, Tolerates various soils and pH
Expert Growing Tips
Hardy in zones 10B-11; frost-free areas only
Plant at least 10 feet from pavement due to large surface roots
Prune young trees to develop strong single trunk
Remove branches half the diameter of trunk
Train major limbs to 8-12 feet height for clearance
May take 5-12 years to bloom from seed; grafted trees bloom sooner
Protect trunk from line trimmers
Be prepared for 1-2 feet long seed pods that create litter
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular flowering shade tree
- Specimen tree for large landscapes
- Street tree (without sidewalks)
- Park and public space plantings
- Tropical garden focal point
- Dappled shade provider
Traditional Uses
- Bark and leaves used in traditional medicine
- Plant extracts show antibacterial and anti-fungal properties
- Leaves studied for potential anti-diabetic activity
- Used in folk medicine for various ailments
- Seeds sometimes used as beads in crafts
- Nitrogen-fixing properties improve soil
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Royal Poinciana Flower
how long does it take for royal poinciana to bloom
Royal poinciana trees grown from seed typically take 5-12 years to bloom. Grafted trees bloom much sooner, often within 2-3 years.
when does royal poinciana bloom
Royal poinciana blooms in late spring through summer (May-August in the Northern Hemisphere), creating spectacular displays when the tree is nearly bare of leaves.
is royal poinciana messy
Yes, royal poinciana is considered messy. It drops large bean-like pods (1-2 feet long) in spring, sheds leaves, and has flowers that fall after blooming.
can royal poinciana grow in pots
Young royal poincianas can be grown in large containers, but they eventually need to be planted in the ground as they develop extensive root systems and large canopies.
why is my royal poinciana not flowering
Common reasons include: tree is too young (under 5 years), insufficient sunlight, poor drainage, or recent severe pruning that removed flower buds.
how big do royal poinciana trees get
Royal poincianas typically grow 30-40 feet tall with a broad, flat-topped canopy spreading 40-60 feet wide, sometimes wider than tall.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Powder Puff Flower
Calliandra haematocephala Hassk.
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Yellow Silk Floss Flower
Ceiba speciosa (A.St.-Hil.) Ravenna
Silk floss flowers are spectacular pink to wine-red hibiscus-like blooms that appear on distinctive spiny-trunked trees in fall. Native to South American rainforests, these stunning flowers symbolize strength, tropical splendor, and the resilient beauty of nature.
Cassia Fistula
Cassia fistula
Cassia Fistula is a spectacular tropical tree with cascading chains of bright yellow flowers, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and Thai royalty.