A few years ago, I encouraged readers of this column with small yards to plant the dwarf poinciana. Today, a large gloriously blooming royal poinciana just off my Kona lanai begs for my attention ...

Dwarf poinciana (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a large, drought-tolerant, freeze-sensitive shrub or small tree from Mexico and Central America. It displays flamboyant crimson-and-yellow blossoms ...