Erythrina Caffra

Description

Erythrina Caffra, also known as the Coastal Coral Tree or African Coral Tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the eastern coast of southern Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its showy red flowers. The tree blooms in the spring and summer, producing clusters of bright red flowers that open sequentially along the length of the inflorescence. The flowers are pollinated by birds and insects, and the tree produces large, flat pods that contain several seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Erythrina Caffra can reach heights of up to 10 meters and has a spreading, irregular crown with a diameter of up to 8 meters. The bark is smooth and grey, becoming rough and fissured with age. The leaves are compound and trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 10 cm in length. The leaflets are green and smooth on the upper surface and paler and slightly hairy on the lower surface. The flowers are produced in large, showy clusters at the ends of the branches and are bright red in color. The tree produces large, flat pods that are up to 30 cm in length and contain several seeds.

Care Guide

Erythrina Caffra is a relatively easy tree to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure it grows and blooms to its full potential. Here are some care tips:Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil around the tree is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring and summer.Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to bloom to its full potential.Hardiness Zones: Erythrina Caffra is hardy to USDA Zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Erythrina Caffra is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The tree can also be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Erythrina Caffra is native to the eastern coast of southern Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal forests, riverbanks, and grasslands. The tree is also widely cultivated in gardens and parks throughout the world.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Erythrina Caffra a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Erythrina Caffra is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of up to 10 meters in just a few years.Q: Does Erythrina Caffra require pruning?
A: Erythrina Caffra does not generally require pruning, but it can be pruned to shape or to remove damaged or diseased branches.Q: Are the seeds of Erythrina Caffra edible?
A: No, the seeds of Erythrina Caffra are not edible and can be toxic if ingested.Q: Can Erythrina Caffra be grown in a container?
A: Erythrina Caffra can be grown in a container, but it will require regular repotting and may not grow to its full potential.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Erythrina Caffra:

• Erythrina lysistemon
• Erythrina caffra var. longipes
• Erythrina zeyheri
• Erythrina humeana

References

• “Erythrina Caffra.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2019, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/erythrincaff.htm.
• “Erythrina Caffra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d150.
• “Erythrina Caffra (Coastal Coral Tree).” World Agroforestry Centre, 2019, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1813.