Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Delonix regia
Royal Poinciana, Flamboyant · Mjohoro, Msikukuu
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Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This tropical tree grows to 10-18 metres with a broad-spreading, umbrella-like crown. It is noted for its superb ornamental display of showy scarlet or orange-red flowers, each with four spreading petals and a larger fifth petal often streaked with yellow and white. The leaves are distinctive, lacy, fern-like and bipinnately compound, and flowers give way to flattened, woody bean-like pods up to 60 cm long.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this tree is ideal as a specimen, shade, or avenue tree in coastal Kilifi gardens. Its wide, spreading crown makes it excellent for providing shade in large open lawns and public spaces, but its vigorous root system can lift pavements, so it should be spaced at least 3 meters from structures.
Growing notes
Delonix regia is a fast-growing tree, preferring consistent moisture until established, after which it becomes highly drought-tolerant. It dislikes temperatures below 10°C and requires full sun for prolific flowering. Caution is advised as its shallow root system can damage sidewalks, and branches are susceptible to breakage in strong winds.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: missouribotanicalgarden.org, paudhshala.com, worldagroforestry.org, wikipedia.org, ufl.edu, oregonstate.edu. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.