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It’s that time of year, when Miami-Dade County’s official flowering tree can be seen in full bloom across the region: the Royal Poinciana, also known as the flamboyant, or flame tree. The bright-red trees are endemic to the western forests of Madagascar, but are also found in tropical and sub-tropical regions like South Florida. Experts say that there are more Royal Poincianas in Miami than in Madagascar, where the trees are endangered by deforestation. Famed botanist and “plant explorer” David Fairchild is credited with introducing the trees to Miami, and for holding in 1937 the region’s first Royal Poinciana Festival, which just celebrated its 76th anniversary June 1-3. The brilliant crimson colors won’t last long, so appreciate them now while you can — July marks the end of the trees’ three-month blooming season.
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