El yellow flamboyant It is a spectacular tree that, although it sometimes goes unnoticed compared to its red-flowered relative, dazzles with the intense yellow color of its flower clusters. Its scientific name is Peltophorum pterocarpum, and is appreciated both for its ornamental value and for the important benefits it provides to its surroundings, such as shade, fodder, and usefulness in urban landscaping projects. Below, we offer a complete guide to all its characteristics, care, uses, and interesting facts, as well as the differences with the red flamboyant (Delonix direction), so you can discover everything you need to know if you want to have one in your garden or simply want to learn more about this unmistakable species.
Origin and botanical characteristics of the yellow flamboyan
El yellow flamboyant, Peltophorum pterocarpum, is a deciduous tree native to tropical Southeast Asia and Australia. It is commonly found in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, New Guinea, and northern Australia. It has spread widely to tropical and subtropical areas of Africa, the Americas, and Oceania due to its extraordinary ornamental and functional value.
This species stands out for its imposing bearingIt can reach heights of between 15 and 25 meters, although in urban gardens and parks it is usually seen between 12 and 20 meters. Its straight, robust trunk, with grayish or light brown bark, can exceed one meter in diameter in adult specimens and supports a wide, spreading crown between 4 and 6 meters in diameter, ideal for providing dense shade.
The leaves The yellow flamboyant leaves are alternate, bipinnate, and highly decorative. They reach 30 to 50 centimeters in length and are divided into 12 to 20 pairs of pinnae, each with 20 to 40 leaflets measuring 1 to 2 cm. When young, the leaves have a rusty-pubescent hue, becoming greener and shinier with age.
The flowers They are hermaphroditic and appear in terminal paniculate clusters, which can measure more than 20 centimeters in length. Each flower is pentamerous, with slightly unequal yellow petals and a calyx with 5 sepals. Flowering occurs during the warm season and is so abundant that the tree is completely covered in a deep yellow, making it spectacular from a distance.
El fruit It is a compressed, elliptical legume with marginal wings, up to 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. Initially red, the pod turns black upon ripening and usually contains between 2 and 4 oval, hard, shiny brown seeds.
Main uses of the yellow flamboyan
- Ornamental: It is especially valued for its shade, elegance, and the intense color of its flowers. Common in parks, avenues, and public or private gardens, it grows alone or accompanied by trees of equal or smaller size, such as the Delonix direction. For further information on the different species and their diversity, please consult the flamboyant color guide.
- Forage and agricultural uses: Its foliage is used as animal feed, especially in agroforestry systems in Asia and Africa. It is often combined with livestock pastures, as it provides nutrients and covers large areas.
- Wood: Although not its primary use, the wood of the yellow flamboyan is used locally for light carpentry, furniture making, and small handicrafts, as it is relatively dense and easy to work.
- Traditional medicine: In Asian countries, different parts of the plant have been used in folk remedies, especially the bark and seeds, to treat some ailments, although caution and medical advice are recommended due to the possible toxicity of certain substances.
- Bonsai: Like the red flamboyant, this species can be grown in pots and pruned to form bonsais, although its tendency to develop vigorous roots and rapid growth make it suitable primarily for experienced hobbyists.
Differences between yellow flamboyant and red flamboyant
El yellow flamboyant (Peltophorum pterocarpum) And the red flamboyant (Delonix direction) belong to closely related families, but are distinct species with botanical, ecological and landscape characteristics:
- Origin: The yellow flamboyant originates from Southeast Asia and Australia, while the red flamboyant is native to Madagascar and drier habitats.
- Flowering: The yellow flamboyant produces clusters of intense yellow flowers. The red flamboyant stands out for its intense red and orange flowers, and there are even varieties with yellow flowers called Delonix regia var. flavidTo differentiate between the two, you can also consult the Guide to differentiating the flamboyant from the jacaranda.
- Size and bearing: The yellow one is usually more slender and taller (up to 25 m), with a tall crown and erect branches, while the red one rarely exceeds 12-15 meters and tends to spread horizontally forming umbrella-shaped crowns.
- Fruit: The fruit of the yellow variety is a compressed, winged, elliptical pod, about 10 cm long, while the red variety can be longer than 40-50 cm and is more woody.
- Sheets: Both species have bipinnate leaves, but the yellow ones are finer and more elegant, with more leaflets per leaf.
- Use: Both are appreciated in gardening for their shade and flowering, although the yellow variety is more commonly used in urban projects due to its tolerance to pruning and better adaptation to varied soils.
Environmental requirements and optimal growing conditions
Key care tips for the yellow flamboyant
Location and planting
To ensure healthy development and abundant flowering, it is essential Plant the yellow flamboyan in a sunny and spacious placeGiven its size, it is recommended to plant it at a minimum distance of 4-6 meters from structures, walls, and other trees of similar size. This prevents problems with both the shade it casts and the development of its surface roots. In small gardens, it can initially be grown in a pot, moving it to the ground when it reaches a sufficient size and the climate is warm. For more information on its reproduction, visit the Flamboyant seeds and reproduction section.
Type of soil and suitable substrate
Adequate watering
It doesn't tolerate drought, so water frequently but without flooding. In summer, it's common to water 3-4 times a week, especially during heat waves or in sandy soils. In winter, when growth slows, once a week is sufficient. plant watering care sheet can help you determine the appropriate amount and frequency.
Fertilization and fertilization
During active growth (spring-summer), It is recommended to fertilize with compost, cured manure or liquid organic fertilizersIf planted in a pot, always use liquid fertilizers following the dosage recommended on the packaging. Avoid excessive chemical fertilizers, as they can damage the roots or burn the foliage if the substrate doesn't drain well. The nutrient intake helps maintain green leaves, abundant blooms, and improved pest resistance.
Pruning and maintenance
La pruning Pruning is not essential, but can be done after flowering to remove dry, broken, or out-of-shape branches. The tree tolerates canopy formation and pruning of small branches; however, drastic cuts should be avoided to avoid weakening it.
Multiplication and reproduction
La The easiest way to multiply the yellow flamboyant is through seeds, which can be harvested once the fruits have fully ripened and acquired their characteristic black color. The optimal planting process includes soaking them in hot water for a few seconds and then keeping them in water at room temperature for 24 hours to promote germination and shorten the waiting time.
- Collect ripe, healthy seeds.
- Scarify as described above.
- Sow in trays or pots with specific seedling substrate, placing one or two seeds per socket.
- Keep the substrate moist but not flooded.
- Place the seedbed in a sunny location, protected from torrential rain.
- Germination can vary between 1 and 2 months depending on ambient temperature.
In addition to sexual reproduction, multiplication is practiced in specialized nurseries by means of woody cuttings, although the success rate is lower.
Pests, diseases and common problems
- Common pests: The yellow flamboyant can be attacked by aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and foliage-chewing caterpillars, especially in humid environments or when weakened.
- Diseases: Fungal infections occur if there is waterlogging or excess moisture in the roots, causing root rot. It's crucial to monitor drainage and remove diseased leaves.
- Nutritional deficiencies: They usually manifest as chlorosis (yellow leaves and green veins) if the substrate is low in iron or nitrogen. Regular organic fertilization prevents this type of problem.
- Sensitivity to cold: It is very susceptible to frost, which can cause the death of shoots or branches and even kill the specimen if the temperature drops below zero degrees.
Yellow flamboyant in garden design and urban landscaping
The yellow flamboyant has become a priority option in Urban landscaping and tropical and subtropical garden design Thanks to its spectacular blooms and its broad, dense shade, it's often seen lining avenues, squares, parks, and main entrances, bringing color and freshness to public and private spaces.
Because of its shallow roots, it's best to keep it away from pavements and foundations. Combined with contrasting flower species (red, orange, white) or foliage of different textures, it provides striking visual results. Growing it as a alignment tree On boulevards or wide streets, it has been successful in Latin American and Southeast Asian cities, as long as the space for the expansion of its canopy and roots is respected.
Curiosities, symbolism and other interesting facts
- cultural symbolism: In the Philippines, a remarkable specimen of the yellow flamboyant (known as the "Kalayaan tree" or "freedom tree") has historical significance for its connection to the country's independence.
- Ecological impact: Although it's not generally considered an invasive species, its shade can become so dense that it restricts the growth of surrounding herbaceous plants. Therefore, it's recommended to plant it in large, well-planned spaces.
- Flowering and pollination: Its flowers are visited by bees, butterflies, and other insects, promoting local biodiversity and the ecological balance of the garden or urban environment.
- Sustainability: Used in urban reforestation projects and as a windbreak in agricultural areas.
Yellow flamboyant as a bonsai
El Yellow flamboyan can also be worked as a bonsai, although it presents certain difficulties, such as a tendency to develop large leaves and infrequent flowering in small pots. To achieve an attractive bonsai, regular pruning of branches and roots is necessary, as is a well-lit location. The substrate should always be well-aerated and rich in nutrients, and it is important to fertilize frequently during the growing season.
Regardless of the growing option, the yellow flamboyant tree is positioned as one of the best options for those seeking beauty, shade, and low maintenance in warm climates. While it requires space and is intolerant of cold, its imposing presence and the beauty of its flowers make each specimen a true visual spectacle during its blooming season. Plant one in your garden or public space and enjoy a tree that, in addition to being decorative, can become the centerpiece of your landscape and offer multiple ecological and functional benefits.
