Isn't that an absolutely charming name for a tree?
If we gave the name flamboyant to this tree native to Africa, it is due to its orange blooms flowering over its green foliage. The beauty of this tree also comes from the fact that its leaves are relatively long: up to 50 centimeters per leaf. Wide and oval, the colorful flowers rest upon the leaves. Consisting of long clusters of 5-petaled flowers, they have rounded contours and measure up to 15 cm in diameter. Ranging from yellow to scarlet red, the nectar-rich flowers lend all their prestige to our tree.
It should be noted that the foliage disappears during the dry season, returning as soon as the season ends. Its foliage is its main characteristic and key asset. It is often this tree that is chosen for adorn public squares in the West Indies or simply to decorate a private garden thanks to its scarlet blooms. Indeed, the flamboyant tree is often used for shade in warm countries, which is easily understandable.
That said, while its leaves are certainly impressive, its roots are just as much so. This ornamental shade tree has a very extensive shallow root system.
Its origins
Originally from Madagascar, this tree is found almost everywhere in Africa and even in India. In fact, the royal poinciana needs specific climatic conditions. The minimum is 7°C for this tree, which can only thrive in the warmest and most humid parts of our globe.
That said, due to climate change, royal poinciana is now found in Mediterranean countries such as Italy or even Corsica. However, in European latitudes, and especially when the tree is grown in a pot, the flowers almost never bloom... alas.
Different varieties
There are actually several varieties of tree called "flamboyant". One of the most famous is the Caesalpinia gillesii, (formerly named Poinciana gillesii) which is more specifically called the dwarf poinciana or yellow bird of paradise. Unlike Delonix regia, the color of its flowers tends more towards yellow and orange.
Dwarf poinciana is native to Argentina and Uruguay. Here again, it is not uncommon to find it elsewhere in the world, such as in Asia for example.
Its Bloom
Whether small or large, trees known as royal poincianas are trees exotic par excellence. Beyond their floral ornaments, they remain sturdy trees that are quite easy to grow in any soil, even if it is dry and poor. After a few years, and more specifically around ten years, the Delonix will be able to bloom. The planted seed will give rise to a handsome trunk, bearing an airy crown of brightly colored flowers!
Wood quality
Délonix wood is highly sought after for its strength and particularly for its color and the quality of its wood. The wood is light yellow, and the heartwood color varies from yellow to light brown. This gives it a distinct appeal for carpenters and other woodworkers. In particular, Poinciana wood is a material widely used by professionals. It takes a beautiful polish and remains relatively resistant to moisture and insects. According to the botanist Lucile Allorge, “Wood is light, bright, soft to the touch, and easy to work with”.
Ideal for indoor furniture, it will bring both strength and warmth to its surroundings.