Poinciana

The Royal Poinciana (Delonix Regia) grows in the Tropical South (). A deciduous tree with spectacular orange to scarlet flowers is cold sensitive and probably not suitable for most areas within Zone 9a. Links:

• University of Florida
• UF School of Forestry Resources & Conservation

However, there is also a group of shubs or small trees in the Poinciana family called Caesalpinia (Fabaceae Leguminosae) that are more cold tolerant or adaptable:

• Bird of Paradise Bush (C. Gilliesii)
  • While it is suitable to Zone 9, it is adapted to desert conditions
• Mexican Bird of Paradise (C. Mexicana)
• Red Bird of Paradise or Dwarf Poinciana (C. Pulcherrima) Flowers year round with peaks in Spring and Fall. Found mostly in South Florida (hardy in Zones 9b - 11). the shrub will freeze to ground and rebound quickly. Height 8 - 12' with equal spread. "This is a beautiful, refreshing addition to any garden or yard as a specimen or as an accent toward the middle or back of a shrub border." UF
  • Images
  • University of Florida