Tree Directory

Common Name

Royal Poinciana, Flamboyant Tree, Flame of the Forest

Family

Fabaceae

Origin & Distribution

Native to Madagascar.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Tree Code

UI-BG-TS-021

GPS Coordinates (Lat, Long)

7.45757, 3.896268

QR Code

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Description

Medium-sized deciduous tree, usually 8–15 m tall, with a broad, spreading, umbrella-like crown. Bark greyish-brown, smooth when young, becoming slightly rough with age. Leaves are large, feathery, and bipinnate with numerous small leaflets, giving a delicate fern-like appearance. Flowers are large, bright red-orange with five petals, one slightly larger and marked with yellow and white streaks; produced in terminal clusters, especially in late dry season/early rains. Fruits are long, flat, dark brown woody pods, 30–60 cm in length, containing multiple hard seeds.

Ecological Information

Grows in well-drained soils and full sunlight. Deciduous during the dry season. Often planted along avenues, gardens, and parks for shade and ornamental display.

Uses & Importance

Ornamental: Valued for its spectacular floral display and shade. Cultural: Often planted in institutional compounds and ceremonial spaces. Timber: Wood is soft and not durable, mainly used for light carpentry or fuelwood. Seeds sometimes used for craftwork and jewelry.