The flame tree belongs to the carob family and is known under the name flamboyant. The fact that this species belongs to the legumes can be seen from the flowers and leaves. The feathery foliage is particularly aesthetic, which is why professionals cultivate the deciduous tree as a bonsai.
The flame tree is not a typical bonsai
growth characteristics
Flame trees are tropical plants that can grow up to ten meters high. Their crown is naturally umbrella-like, which is also the focus of bonsai design. In tropical conditions, the tree is evergreen. Cooler conditions cause the wood to shed leaves. It survives the Central European winter months in a roost with temperatures between ten and 20 degrees Celsius.
Notes on growing bonsai
These specimens are not typical objects to create a mini tree. If you want to turn the species into a bonsai, you need to have a lot of patience. Delonix regia slowly lignifies. Similar to other bird of paradise bushes from the same genus, the leaves can be kept to a maximum size of ten centimeters through targeted design measures.
How to cut properly
Despite its dainty appearance, a flame tree tolerates more radical pruning measures very well. These take place in the spring so that the tree puts all its energy into the growth of the existing plant parts in the subsequent growing season. Take away any excess shoots that spoil the overall picture. In order for an umbrella-shaped crown to develop over time, regular trimming is necessary throughout the summer. By constantly cutting back, the tree develops beautiful branches.
Tips for a balanced overall picture
When cutting, keep the big picture in mind. Flame trees are aesthetically pleasing with an odd number of branches. They increase excitement and increase interest. Ideally, the deciduous tree has three branches at different levels, so that the flowers and leaves have enough space to develop. When cutting the leaves, you should make sure that the branches are never completely defoliated.
wire
The tropical plants have very soft and elastic wood. In addition, the young twigs slowly become woody, which is why stabilizing wires are well suited for the design. Aluminum wires are wound spirally around the shoots so that they can then be bent into the desired shape. Make sure it is snug but not too tight. Check the bonsai weekly for growth and remove the wires when secondary growth begins.
tips
If you want to reorient older branches, rigging is a good option.
maintenance
These specimens turn out to be sensitive in terms of care measures. They do not tolerate mistakes and quickly collapse in sub-optimal conditions. A permeable and mineral substrate is just as important as a planter with drainage holes.
How to care properly:
- Allow soil to dry out before watering
- Avoid dry phases and soil that is too moist
- fertilize organically every four weeks during the growth phase