Description

To many ears, “flame tree” sounds more down-to-earth, more accessible than “Royal Poinciana” or “Flamboyant.” The latter could be the name of a grand hotel in an exotic location. Or a seedy one across the tracks. Would you stay at the Royal Poinciana?

There’s no better place to meet — or to be stood up for a date. The flowers are already there and the spreading branches offer comfort. The leaves are like airy ferns casting gentle consolation to all.

Delonix regia is in the bean family Fabaceae, subfamily Caesalpinioideae native to Madagascar. It is noted for its fern-like leaves and flamboyant display of orange-red flowers.