If asked to name a single tree that's helped shape the character of Brisbane, it would be the magnificent poinciana Delonix regia. In years gone by it was traditionally planted as a street tree and now enhances a lot of the city’s older suburbs.
The poinciana is native to Madagascar, and in Brisbane the bright orange flowers herald the coming of summer. They also signal the start of the storm season.
They can grow up to 10 metres, but mostly only reach between 3 to 5 metres. However, their spreading growth habit, which can be up to 10 metres, means the poinciana is not a tree for a small yard.
