Delonix regia Royal Poinciana Seeds

About this species

Delonix regia is an accepted Fabaceae species native to Madagascar, where it grows mainly in seasonally dry tropical habitats. It is assessed as Vulnerable in the wild. Common names include royal poinciana and flamboyant, reflecting the mature tree's broad crown, fern-like leaves and conspicuous red-orange flowers.

Also known as: Royal poinciana, Flamboyant, Gulmohar, Krishnachura, Flamboyán, Malinche and Poinciana regia.

Sowing guide

1. Abrade one small point of the very hard coat, stopping as soon as the outer layer is breached.
2. Soak treated seeds in room-temperature water and note which ones swell.
3. Sow in a deep pot of free-draining medium and cover to about one seed thickness.
4. Keep warm and evenly moist in bright conditions, allowing all excess water to drain.

Hard seed may remain dormant until water enters the coat. Treat each seed carefully and never cut into the embryo. Keep the pot labelled and allow for uneven emergence rather than repeatedly disturbing the medium.

Seedling care

Give seedlings increasingly strong light and pot on before the early root system is restricted. Water thoroughly during active growth, then let the surface begin drying. Protect young plants from frost and prolonged cool wet conditions.

Royal poinciana becomes a large, spreading tree with substantial surface roots. Provide generous distance from structures and confirm local planting and invasive-species guidance. Seed-grown plants vary and need a suitable warm climate for long-term outdoor performance.