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Description
Erythrina Crista-Galli, commonly known as the Cockspur Coral Tree, is a deciduous flowering tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. It is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive flowers and unique shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Appearance
The Cockspur Coral Tree can grow up to 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a distinctive shape with a wide-spreading crown and a thick trunk. Its leaves are large and trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 4 inches long. The tree produces clusters of bright red flowers that resemble spiky coral. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and are followed by large seed pods that can reach up to 8 inches long.
Care Guide
The Cockspur Coral Tree is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
- Soil: Plant the tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Cockspur Coral Tree is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cockspur Coral Tree is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the tree. The tree can also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Cockspur Coral Tree is native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is drought-tolerant once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Cockspur Coral Tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with enough space, sunlight, and nutrients.
Q: How often should I prune the tree?
A: Prune the tree in the winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. You can also prune the tree to maintain its shape, but avoid excessive pruning, which can reduce flowering.
Q: Is the tree toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the tree is toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The leaves, seeds, and bark contain alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms when ingested.
Q: Can the tree be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the tree can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cuttings root.
Related Plants
- Erythrina lysistemon
- Erythrina crista-galli var. japonica
- Erythrina herbacea
- Erythrina variegata
References
- “Erythrina crista-galli.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b460.
- “Erythrina crista-galli.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/erythrina-crista-galli.
- “Erythrina crista-galli.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st468.
