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Description
Erythrina Flabelliformis, also known as the coral bean or cardinal spear, is a deciduous flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, and it is well-known for its stunning coral-red flowers that bloom in early summer. The plant produces long, bean-like seed pods that remain on the plant throughout the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Appearance
Erythrina Flabelliformis is a medium-sized shrub or small tree that can grow up to 25 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Its leaves are deciduous and composed of three leaflets, resembling a hand. The flowers are produced in clusters of 5-10 on long stems, and they are bright coral-red in color, with a yellow center. The seed pods are long, narrow, and brown, and they can reach up to 8 inches in length.
Care Guide
Erythrina Flabelliformis is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate some drought, but it should be watered regularly during hot, dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Erythrina Flabelliformis thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythrina Flabelliformis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Aphids: These pests can cause distorted leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. It can be prevented by ensuring the plant is planted in well-drained soil and not overwatered.
Habitat
Erythrina Flabelliformis is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, and it can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, canyons, and desert washes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erythrina Flabelliformis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Erythrina Flabelliformis is deer-resistant.
Q: When should I prune my Erythrina Flabelliformis?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.
Q: Can Erythrina Flabelliformis grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Erythrina Flabelliformis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Erythrina Flabelliformis:- Erythrina Crista-galli (cockspur coral tree)- Erythrina X Bidwillii (Bidwill’s coral tree)- Erythrina Poeppigiana (tropical coral tree)- Erythrina Herbacea (cherokee bean)
References
– “Erythrina Flabelliformis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 July 2021.
