Nothing announces the arrival of summer quite like the Royal Poinciana Trees bursting into flower. Brilliant red flowers cover the trees eventually blanketing the ground with scarlet petals. The petal carpet may be my favorite part. Old school Floridians call these Flamboyants.
Royal Poinciana is called Delonix regia by botanists and is native to Madagascar. It is a member of the Legume family of plants; family members tend to produce large pods and a lot of roots. The ferny foliage folds up at nightfall and is deciduous on the Treasure Coast, but can be evergreen in warmer tropical climates. Bright red flowers have a prominent fifth petal that is thought to wave the pollinators like butterflies into the flower.
Royal Poincianas are easily grown from seed collected from pods dropped on the ground. To start a seedling, soak seed in water for 24 hours until soft and then nick one end of the seed to allow a seedling to emerge more easily. Plant one inch deep in free draining potting mix and keep moist. This is best done when temperatures are over 75 degrees. It takes up to three weeks for the seed to germinate. Once the seedling reaches an eight inch height transplant into a six inch container. Continue to increase the container to a 10 inch size while contemplating where to plant.
Things to consider when planting a Royal Poinciana.
It’s ultimate height and spread – 30 to 40 feet.
Tendency towards aggressive root systems – allow 15 – 20 feet from concrete driveways and avoid septic tanks.
Tendency to drop pods. Not so great over a patio or seating area.
The umbrella shape tends to break up in high winds.
Fabulous, flamboyant flowers!
Treasure Coast Free Press 
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