Related Topics: Trees (general)

Poinciana

Delonix regia

This is one of the classic flowering trees growing in South East Queensland, although it is not an Australian native. The wonderful spreading shape makes them wonderful for providing shade in a hot climate. The flowers are a bonus.

Given the large size, plus root and litter issues, poincianas aren't really suitable for the suburbs and are being planted less and less.

Nevertheless, if you live in an area where it grows, the common red-flowered Poinciana should be obtainable. It may even be possible to get an advanced (large) specimen from a specialist tree grower. You may have to hunt around to find the yellow type, if it is available at all.

Pictures

Poinciana trees are magnificent when they have room to spread. Note variation in flowering, with the tree on the far left apprently delayed relative to the other two (Photo: Brisbane, December 2006)

Poinciana flowers. (November 2011, Acacia Ridge, Brisbane)

Poinciana trees. Note variation in flower colour. (November 2012, Sunnybank Hills, Brisbane)

Poinciana trees. Detail of above image. (November 2012, Sunnybank Hills, Brisbane)

Unfortunately, modern urban landscapes don't allow for the space required for these trees to reach their full potential

 

Yellow Poinciana

The following photographs of yellow-flowered trees growing in Brisbane in 2013 may be Delonix regia var. flavida. If the poor flowering of these specimens is anything to go by, few people would be interested in this variety except as a novelty. The trees are small, however, and it is possible that more mature specimens might perform better.

 

2019 Update: Six years later flowering was better, with one tree out of the three having much more bloom. However, this was a good year for all poincianas.