Delonix elata (Poinciana elata)

Delonix elata (historically referred to as Poinciana elata and commonly known as the White Gulmohur or Creamy Peacock Flower) is a drought-deciduous tree in the legume family (Fabaceae), native to the dry bushlands, rocky hillsides, and semi-desert scrub of Somalia and neighboring regions of East Africa. The tree is characterized by a spreading crown, feathery bipinnate leaves, and large, showy flowers with ruffled petals that open pale cream or white and turn light yellow with age, accented by exceptionally long, protruding purplish-yellow stamens.

The species provides vital pastoral utility across arid grazing lands, where its foliage and seed pods serve as protein-rich fodder for camels and livestock during severe droughts. In addition, its lightweight wood is traditionally carved by artisans into household utensils and nomadic gear. The stamp artwork highlights the delicate, long-stamened blossoms and budding branches against a dark background, showcasing the resilient flowering beauty of Somalia’s dryland woodlands.