Scientific name: Delonix regia

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 56.76″ N, 64° 49′ 43.01″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Flamboyant Tree (Delonix regia)

1. Leaf Drop (Deciduous Behavior)
The Flamboyant Tree is deciduous, typically shedding most or all of its leaves during the dry season, particularly between January and March.

• This bare phase often precedes flowering and can last several weeks.
• Some trees may retain a sparse canopy depending on microclimate and rainfall.

2. Flowering
Flamboyant trees produce large, fiery red to orange flower clusters (occasionally yellow in rare cultivars) that cover the entire canopy in a spectacular display.

• Flowering peaks in late dry season to early wet season, usually April to June in St. Croix.
• Flowers emerge on bare or sparsely leaved branches, enhancing their visibility.
• Flowering may last several weeks to over a month, depending on conditions.

Observation Tips:

• Document first bud appearance, full bloom, and flower fall.
• Photograph tree silhouette during leafless blooming—a signature phenophase.
• Note pollinator activity—bees and butterflies are frequent visitors.

3. Leaf Flush (New Growth)
After flowering, delicate, fern-like leaves emerge quickly, creating a soft green canopy.

• Leaf flush typically begins in late spring to early summer (May–July).
• New leaves are light green and feathery, adding texture to the post-flowering profile.

Observation Tips:

• Track progression of new leaf emergence from terminal buds.
• Note whether leaf flush and fruiting overlap.

4. Fruiting
Long, flat, woody seed pods (up to 24 inches) form after flowering and hang from branches into the late wet season.

• Pods start green and turn dark brown or black as they mature.
• They may persist on the tree well into the dry season.

Observation Tips:

• Record pod development stages, especially color change.
• Listen for the sound of pods rattling in the wind—often audible during the dry season.
• Note pod drop and seed dispersal activity, which may be aided by birds or gravity.

5. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Leaf drop
• Apr–Jun: Flowering peak
• May–Jul: Leaf flush begins
• Jul–Nov: Pod maturation and seed dispersal
• Dec–Jan: Gradual canopy thinning

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