The flamboyant (Delonix direction) is a tropical tree that, thanks to its extraordinary flowering and large size, has won the hearts of gardening enthusiasts and experts around the world. This tree is known for its vibrant colors and broad shade, creating an unparalleled visual spectacle during the warmer months. However, despite its popularity and beauty, growing the flamboyant is not without its difficulties. Many people make common mistakes that affect its development and prevent it from displaying its full splendor. Below, we discuss the main mistakes in growing the flamboyant, as well as the fundamental keys to keep it healthy and enjoy its stunning flowers to the fullest.
Essential characteristics of the flamboyan
Native to Madagascar, the flamboyan is a deciduous tree that can reach between 9 and 12 meters high, with a crown that extends horizontally and provides abundant shade. Its bipinnate leaves They resemble ferns, and their large red, orange or even yellow flowers make this species the centerpiece of any gardenIt grows rapidly under optimal conditions and begins to flower at an early age, usually around 4 or 5 years old, although flowering may be delayed in less favorable climates.
- Scientific name: Delonix direction
- Family: Fabaceae
- Increase: Fast, especially during the first years
- Life expectancy: Up to 60 years or more, depending on care and growing conditions
Its roots are shallow and extensive, which is essential to consider when choosing its location, to avoid damage to nearby structures, floors, or plumbing systems.
Most common mistakes when growing a flamboyant
There are several common mistakes that can affect the health and development of a flamboyant tree. Below, we explain the main errors and their consequences, as well as the correct steps to avoid them:
1. Leave the flamboyan exposed to cold or frost
One of the most common mistakes is keeping the flamboyant tree outdoors in areas where winter temperatures drop below zero. The flamboyan is a strictly tropical tree: It does not tolerate extreme cold or frost, and suffers irreversible damage if exposed.
- Limit temperature: The flamboyant tree should be sheltered if the temperature drops below 0°C. If the frost is occasional and short-lived (down to -2°C), larger specimens can be acclimatized, always in areas protected from the wind.
- Typical damages: Total loss of leaves, dehydration of young branches, dieback of shoots and, in severe cases, death of the tree.
When cold weather approaches, the best option is to move the tree indoors, placing it near a bright window and away from drafts. If the flamboyant is too large to move, it can be protected by covering it with special plastic or frost-proof netting, although this isn't always sufficient in harsh climates.
Cold winds, even in the absence of frost, can severely dehydrate the flamboyant. Tropical plants do not tolerate cold drafts well; therefore, it is advisable to place them in protected corners or surround them with other plants that act as natural windbreaks.
2. Inappropriate location and problems with its roots
The flamboyant develops roots superficial and extensiveThis trait is crucial for its survival, but it can cause damage if the tree is planted too close to buildings, sidewalks, pavements, or plumbing systems. Common root-related problems include:
- Structural damage: Its roots can lift sidewalks, patios, or even foundations if planted within 5 meters of any building.
- Interference with pipes: They can seep into water pipes or drains, causing blockages and breaks.
- Drain blockage and soil displacement: Roots can block drains or displace large areas of soil.
Recommended location:
- Plant the flamboyan at least 5 meters away from any structure, pavement or pipe.
- Select a fully sunny and spacious area that allows for horizontal development of its branches and roots.
- In small spaces, use physical barriers to control roots, although their effectiveness may be limited.
3. Growing flamboyan in unsuitable soils
The flamboyan prefers soils well drained, light and rich in organic matter. A common mistake is to plant it in compact, clayey, or water-retaining soils, which can lead to root rot and the appearance of fungi.
How to check if your soil is suitable:
- Dig a 30cm deep hole and fill it with water.
- If water is absorbed quickly, the soil drains well. If it remains stagnant, it will need to be improved before planting.
To improve heavy or compacted soils, mix coarse sand and organic compost. An ideal substrate contains approximately 50% potting soil, 30% compost, and 20% coarse sand, ensuring drainage and nutrition.
In a pot, the container should have drainage holes and be proportionally tall and wide. It's important to repot every two or three years to a larger pot to prevent the root system from becoming strangled.
4. Improper watering: excess or lack of water
Another serious mistake in growing flamboyan is improper watering. Although the flamboyan is tolerant of short periods of drought, needs constant humidity, especially during the growth and flowering stages. Watering should be adapted to the climate and season:
- Summer and warm climates: Water more frequently, up to 3 times per week.
- Other seasons: Keep the soil slightly moist, with 1-2 waterings per week, avoiding waterlogging.
- Winter: Reduce watering if growth slows and temperatures are mild.
Symptoms of improper watering:
- Excess watering: Yellow leaves that drop rapidly, mold or mildew appear on the surface, constantly wet soil, and excessive weight of the pot. This can cause fungus and root rot.
- Lack of irrigation: Dry and drooping young leaves, very dry soil, limp branches, and in extreme cases, mealybug infestation.
To recover the flamboyan:
- If there is excess water: Stop watering, apply fungicide and ensure the pot drains properly.
- If there's a drought: Water immediately. If it's in a pot, soak it in water for half an hour and then resume a regular watering schedule.
5. Neglecting fertilization and manuring
The flamboyan requires a balanced nutrition During spring and summer, fertilizing is essential to vigorous growth and preparation for winter dormancy. Many gardeners forget the importance of fertilizing their trees during their peak growth period, which can result in slow growth and poor flowering. For more information on appropriate fertilizers, see how to choose ornamental trees.
- Provide slow-release organic fertilizers, such as guano or well-rotted compost.
- You can also use fertilizers for green or flowering plants, always following the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overdosing.
- In poor soils, it is advisable to enrich the soil annually with organic matter.
6. Incorrect or no pruning
La pruning the flamboyan Pruning is necessary, but must be done carefully to avoid damaging the surface roots or the balance of the canopy. Experts recommend pruning at the end of the dry season or just before the tree awakens from its dormancy, removing dry, damaged, or diseased branches and, if necessary, shaping the canopy to maintain a harmonious and well-ventilated structure.
- Avoid drastic pruning, as this can weaken the tree and expose it to pests or diseases.
- Use clean and disinfected tools to prevent infection.
Reproduction and propagation of the flamboyant
The flamboyant can be multiplied in two main ways: by seeds and by cuttingsThe first option is the most common due to the ease of access to the mature seed pods.
- Seeds: To increase germination rates, soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing them 1-2 cm deep in moist soil. Maintain the temperature between 25 and 30°C for successful germination. You can also consult All about flamboyant seeds.
- Stem cuttings: Take semi-woody branches during the warmer months. Plant them in light, moist soil, placing them in a warm, protected location until they develop roots.
Flamboyant can also occasionally be propagated by air layering, although this method is less common in home gardening.
Grown in pots and as bonsai
If outdoor space is limited, you can grow your flamboyant in a large pot or even try a flamboyant bonsaiYou should keep in mind that as a bonsai, it will require frequent pruning and doesn't usually flower in small containers. In pots, watering and fertilizing must be especially careful, as the substrate depletes and dries out more quickly.
Flowering, fruiting and pollination of the flamboyant
La flamboyant flowering It's one of the most spectacular events in gardening. Under optimal conditions, the tree begins to produce flowers around 4 or 5 years old, although this period can be extended if the climate isn't warm enough or if the flamboyant is grown in a pot.
- Pollination: Its large, showy flowers attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators, playing an important ecological role in urban and rural gardens.
- Fruits and seeds: The woody pods, up to 60 cm long, ripen during the summer and contain numerous brown seeds, ready for propagation. For more information about their fruits, we recommend visiting more details about the flamboyant.
- Flower color: There are varieties with red, orange, or yellow flowers, allowing you to choose the shade that best suits your garden design.
The tree rarely flowers if kept in a pot or as a bonsai, due to growth restrictions and insufficient reserve accumulation.
Pests, diseases and toxicity
Although it is a hardy tree, the flamboyan can be affected by various pests and diseases if not properly cared for:
- Common pests: Mealybugs, aphids, and mites are the most common insects. They are controlled with organic insecticides or special plant soaps.
- Diseases: Excess humidity favors the appearance of mushrooms such as powdery mildew and root rot. They are controlled with fungicides and by improving drainage and aeration.
- Toxicity: The seeds of the flamboyant are toxic if ingested, so it is advisable to keep them away from children and pets.
Regularly monitor the tree's health and act immediately if you notice symptoms of pests or disease.
Common Misidentifications: The False Flamboyant
There is frequent confusion with trees such as the Caesalpinia pulcherrima, known as the false flamboyant, which, although similar in appearance, has key differences in size and cultivation requirements. The true flamboyant produces much denser shade and grows into large specimens, while the false flamboyant is generally smaller and less demanding in terms of climate.
Special care and additional recommendations
- Protect the flamboyant from extreme winds: Its wide canopy can be vulnerable to storms. Plant it in sheltered areas if possible or prune lightly to reduce the risk of wind damage.
- Keep roots away from any infrastructure: If you have any doubts about spacing, consult a gardening expert before planting.
- Monitor the ambient humidity level: Although it tolerates some drought, its development is optimal with regular watering and moderate humidity.
- Do not abuse fertilization: Excessive fertilizer can be harmful. During the growing season, fertilize every 3-4 weeks and stop feeding in the fall and winter.
- Avoid frequent transplantation: The flamboyant does not tolerate changes of location well in adulthood.
Frequently asked questions about growing flamboyant
- How long does it take for a flamboyant to grow? Under optimal conditions, it can reach its final size within a decade, although flowering may begin earlier.
- Can it live in temperate climates? Only if there is no frost. If the climate is temperate, it is recommended to grow it in a pot and protect it indoors during the winter.
- Is it an invasive tree? It is not considered invasive, but its roots can spread widely and cause damage if not planted carefully.
- Does it produce a lot of shade? Yes, its wide and dense canopy is ideal for providing shade in large gardens.
Ornamental and ecological benefits of the flamboyant
The flamboyant, in addition to beautifying gardens and avenues, promotes biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It's ideal for large spaces, parks, and squares, where it can unleash its full decorative and productive potential.
- Decoration and shade: Provides dense shade and intense ornamental coloring.
- flower arrangements: Its flowers are appreciated in floristry for tropical arrangements.
- Wood: In some regions, its wood is used for small crafts.
Successful flamboyant cultivation depends on a combination of knowledge, patience, and constant attention to the plant's needs. Avoiding the most common mistakes and understanding its specific characteristics will allow you to enjoy a healthy, vigorous, and spectacular tree, capable of transforming any space into a true tropical paradise.
