poinciana

[ poin-see-an-uh ]

noun

1. any of several other tropical trees of the legume family, with showy flowers, as Caesalpina pulcherrima dwarf poinciana or Peltophorum pterocarpum yellow poinciana.
2. royal poinciana.

poinciana

/ ˌpɔɪnsɪˈɑːnə /

noun

1. any tree of the tropical leguminous genera Caesalpinia (formerly Poinciana ) having large orange or red flowers See royal poinciana

Word History and Origins

Origin of poinciana¹

First recorded in 1725–35; from New Latin; named after M. de Poinci, 17th-century governor of the French Antilles; -an, -a ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of poinciana¹

C17: New Latin, named after M. de Poinci, 17th-century governor of the French Antilles

Example Sentences

They imported specimens — including flowering purple jacaranda and red poinciana — that became signatures of Cairo’s streets.

From Seattle Times

Sometimes it feels as though the season’s only rewards are royal poinciana blooms, ripened mangoes and fewer tourists.

From New York Times

During the opening weekend, the poinciana trees were in bright orange flower around the National Museum, the biennial’s main site, which sits next to the provincial Parliament house.

From New York Times

Tip: Instead of hunting for typical colors, try looking out for these blooming plants, trees, and flowers such as the African tulip, chorisia speciosa, timor, royal poinciana and rainbow shower, Trip Savvy recommends.

From Fox News

When she went out Monday morning, the tree had snapped, half wedged in her poinciana tree, the rest leaning on her roof.

From New York Times