Royal poinciana, Gulmohar tree, the flame tree, or Delonix regia are all names of the same tree. It grows rapidly and stays evergreen, producing a striking display of crimson blossoms. Native to Africa, this tree thrives in tropical and subtropical regions but needs plenty of space.
Its foliage features bipinnately compound leaves, each containing up to 25 pairs of leaflets, further divided into 25 more minor pairs. This tree bursts into bloom in warm summer, covering itself with breathtaking clusters of red flowers. Each flower has five petals, typically reddish-orange or scarlet, with one larger petal displaying yellow and white markings. Its fruit grows as a seed pod that can exceed a foot in length.
How To Grow Royal Poinciana From Seeds
You can germinate royal poinciana seeds and plant the seedlings anytime, but first, you’ll need to scarify the seeds to break the harsh seed coat and allow water to penetrate. If you already have a Poinciana tree, collect the long, strappy, dark brown seed pods when they drop to the ground in spring.
- Remove the seeds from the pod.
- Soak them in warm water for a day or two to soften the seed coat before planting.
- Scarify the softened seeds by gently nicking or scratching each with a knife. This step helps water penetrate and speeds up germination. Some gardeners prefer rubbing the seeds with sandpaper to create a peeling effect.
- Fill a 3- to 6-inch deep seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Sow each seed about 1 inch deep and space them 3 inches apart for optimal growth. Also, firm the soil around each seed.
- Place the tray in a warm, partially shaded outdoor spot. Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering. Seeds typically germinate within four to six days.
- Once the seedlings reach 8 inches tall, transplant them into a 1-gallon container. Continue repotting as they grow until you’re ready to plant them in your landscape.
Royal Poinciana Care Guide
Choose a planting site that provides enough space for a Royal Poinciana tree to grow. This fast-growing tree can reach 40 feet tall and spread between 40 and 70 feet wide. If planted too close to structures, its expansive roots and canopy can cause damage. Keep it away from walls, pavement, or any area it might overtake.
After planting, add at least a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base, leaving some space near the trunk to prevent rot.
Light
Royal Poinciana trees thrive in full sunlight, so plant them in a spot with at least six hours of direct sun daily. Without enough light, they may not produce their signature red-orange blooms.
Soil
Poinciana adapts to various soil types as long as drainage is good. It thrives in clay, loamy, sandy, or gravelly soils and tolerates a wide pH range from 4.9 to 10.6.
Water
After planting, water the flame tree regularly throughout spring, summer, and early fall. Keep the soil moist but never soggy, allowing it to dry between waterings. Once the roots are established, gradually reduce watering in late fall and stop extra watering in winter when the tree goes dormant.
Temperature and Humidity
Native to tropical forests, the flame tree thrives in warm, humid conditions and cannot tolerate temperatures below 45°F. It grows well outdoors in warm regions but isn’t suitable for colder climates.
Fertilizer
Feed the Poinciana tree with a balanced liquid fertilizer four to six weeks after planting, then apply it two to three times per year for the first three years. Add an extra dose in early spring and fall, following the product label for proper amounts. After fertilizing, water the soil thoroughly to help nutrients absorb.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
Royal Poinciana faces a few pest problems, but some caterpillars may chew on the leaves without causing significant damage. Spider mites can become an issue, especially in dry conditions. If you spot them, increase humidity or move the tree outdoors. Scale insects may also appear under the leaves, but you can remove them with cotton swabs dipped in alcohol.
To prevent root rot caused by Phellinus noxious fungus, plant the tree in well-draining soil to reduce the risk of infection.
