Delonix regia Raf.

Description :

A small to medium sized tree that attains heights of 12 to 15 m with diameters of 30 to 35 cm. Although it sheds its leaves in winter, or the dry season, it is never totally leafless. The tree has a wide crown of 15m or more. The growth is erect at first and then turns outward causing an umbrella shaped crown. The alternatively arranged leaves are large, double compound (bipinnate), and long, up to 20 to 60 cm. The bark is grey, smooth, splitting or exfoliating. The bole is short and sometimes buttressed. Flowers are 10 cm across, bright scarlet in lax terminal and axillary racemes. They are extremely showy. Flowering occurs after the cold season between May and June. The fruit is a large woody pod 50 cm long and 5 cm wide containing flattened beans. Pods and seed are persistent. It is reproduced from seed. The seeds are large, yellowish and mottled. A fast-growing ornamental in areas that are free of hard frosts. Straight grains, strength is durable.

Distribution :

The tree is native to Malagasy and has been planted in much of Asia and Africa. It is a common ornamental in Karachi. Hyderabad and Lahore. The tree grows on almost any well drained soil. It is an intolerant but is sensitive to frost especially when young.

 

Uses :

This is a fast-growing tree. Used for ornamental and shade purposes.