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Description
Erythrina Coralloides, also known as the Naked Coral Tree or Coral Bean, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America and can grow up to 15 meters in height. The tree has a smooth gray bark and produces beautiful coral-red flowers in winter and early spring. These flowers are followed by long seed pods that contain bright red seeds. The Erythrina Coralloides is a popular ornamental tree due to its stunning flowers, but it is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Appearance
The Erythrina Coralloides is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. Its smooth gray bark is covered in sharp thorns that can grow up to 10 cm in length. The tree produces beautiful coral-red flowers in winter and early spring that are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. These flowers are followed by long seed pods that can grow up to 30 cm in length. The pods contain bright red seeds that are toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
The Erythrina Coralloides is a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this tree:
- Water: The tree should be watered regularly during the growing season, but it can tolerate some drought.
- Fertilization: It is recommended to fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.
- Sunlight: The tree needs full sunlight to produce its beautiful flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The Erythrina Coralloides can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Erythrina Coralloides is generally a healthy tree, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These pests can cause distortion of the leaves and stunting of the tree’s growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can lead to the death of the tree. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil has good drainage.
Habitat
The Erythrina Coralloides is native to Mexico and Central America and can be found in various habitats, including dry and deciduous forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. The tree can grow at elevations up to 2000 meters and can tolerate some frost.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the seeds of the Erythrina Coralloides be used for anything?
A: Yes, the seeds of the Erythrina Coralloides have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and pain.
Q: Is the Erythrina Coralloides toxic?
A: Yes, the seeds of the Erythrina Coralloides are toxic if ingested. They contain a toxin called erythrin that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Q: Does the Erythrina Coralloides attract any wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.
Q: Can the Erythrina Coralloides be planted in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be planted in a container, but it will need frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Erythrina Crista-Galli
- Erythrina Flabelliformis
- Erythrina Falcata
- Erythrina Herbacea
References
- “Erythrina Coralloides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a566.
- “Erythrina Coralloides.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/erythcoral.htm.
- “Erythrina Coralloides: Naked Coral Tree.” Arizona State University, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/erythrinacoralloides.html.
