Scientific name: Peltophorum pterocarpum

Common names: Yellow Flame Tree, Yellow Poinciana, Copperpod

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 56.66″ N, 64° 49′ 45.78″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Yellow Poinciana (Peltophorum pterocarpum)

1. Leaf Behavior
This tree is deciduous to semi-deciduous, often shedding its bipinnate, feathery leaves during the dry season.

• In St. Croix, leaf drop commonly occurs between January and March, either partially or entirely.
• New leaf flush often follows the first rains or occurs alongside flowering.

Observation Tips:

• Watch for yellowing and leaf fall as an early seasonal cue.
• New foliage emerges light green and soft, turning darker with maturity.

2. Flowering
Flowering is the tree’s most spectacular phase. It produces dense, upright panicles of bright yellow, ruffled flowers, often 12–18 inches long, rising above the canopy.

• Flowering typically occurs in the late dry to early wet season (March to June) in St. Croix.
• Flowers are lightly fragrant and attract bees and butterflies.
• Trees may flower while still leafless or with partial canopy.

Observation Tips:

• Record first bud appearance, peak bloom, and duration of flowering.
• Photograph crown silhouette against the sky during peak bloom.
• Track pollinator visitation, especially during morning hours.

3. Fruiting
Following flowering, the tree produces flat, oblong seed pods, about 3–4 inches long, that turn from green to reddish-brown or dark brown.

• Fruiting begins in late spring to early summer and may extend through late wet season.
• Pods persist on the tree and may be slow to drop, often remaining through the dry season.

Observation Tips:

• Note pod development and color transition.
• Check for pod drop and seed dispersal under the tree, especially after wind or rain.

4. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Leaf drop
• Mar–May: Flowering (can overlap with early leaf flush)
• May–Jul: Leaf flush and fruit set
• Jul–Nov: Pod ripening
• Nov–Dec: Pod persistence or slow drop