The Delonix regia, commonly known as the Flamboyant, is an iconic feature of tropical landscapes, admired for its striking red flowers and majestic form. Native to Madagascar, this member of the Fabaceae family is renowned for its ability to transform any setting into a vibrant display of colour. During its flowering season, its bright green foliage provides a stunning contrast to the clusters of fiery red-orange blossoms, reminiscent of flickering flames. As a long-lived tree, the Flamboyant often grows to heights of 10 to 15 metres, with a wide, spreading canopy that makes it both an ornamental and practical choice.
Its sturdy trunk and smooth bark add an elegant touch, while its delicate, bipinnate leaves, composed of numerous tiny leaflets, give the tree a light and airy appearance. Thriving in warm climates, Delonix regia flourishes in well-drained soils and requires full sunlight to thrive. In Ivato, near Antananarivo, it finds the perfect home in the botanical gardens of Au Bois Vert, where it captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty.
Beyond its visual appeal, the Flamboyant also plays an essential ecological role. Its root system helps to improve soil quality, while its expansive canopy provides shelter for local wildlife. Whether standing near a lodge, a restaurant, or an hotel, this magnificent tree brings an unmistakable touch of tropical splendour.
Plant use
The Delonix regia serves multiple purposes, enhancing its appeal beyond its striking appearance. Primarily, this tree is planted as an ornamental feature in tropical gardens and public spaces due to its spectacular beauty. It creates shaded avenues, making it an excellent choice for urban areas such as Antananarivo. Its dense canopy helps lower the ambient temperature and fosters a serene atmosphere, making it perfect for an open-air restaurant or a lodge set in a natural environment. Beyond its decorative role, the Flamboyant tree also has practical applications. In agriculture, it is often used as a shade tree to protect delicate crops. While its wood is relatively lightweight, it is still useful for crafting handmade objects. Additionally, its seeds, found in long pods, have been traditionally used in some cultures to make jewellery or musical instruments. In the Ivato region, visitors can discover these traditional uses through guided tours in places such as the botanical garden of Au Bois Vert. Lastly, this tree plays a crucial role in combating soil erosion, making it particularly valuable in areas prone to harsh weather conditions. Planting Flamboyant trees not only enhances the natural landscape but also contributes to ecological conservation while adding beauty to spaces such as hotels or lodges.
Key information
| Common name | Flamboyant |
| Scientific name | Delonix regia |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Natural habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | October to February (depending on the region) |
