Care of the tree Erythrina variegata or Indian coral tree |
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The genus Erythrina, family Fabaceae, comprises 130 species of trees native to tropical regions on all continents. Some species are: Erythrina variegata, Erythrina crista-galli, Erythrina coralloides, Erythrina lysistemon, Erythrina speciosa, Erythrina caffra, Erythrina americana. Common names: Indian coral tree, Tiger's claw. This species is native to tropical Asia and the Pacific. They are deciduous trees with a greenish trunk that reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The showy green and yellow leaves are large and rhomboid in shape. The flowers are elongated (7 cm/2.75" long) and orange-red in color; they attract hummingbirds. They produce pod-shaped fruits that contain the seeds; To collect seeds, it is advisable to wait for the pods to open on their own. They are used as isolated specimens and in public streets and parks. Erythrina variegata needs full sun or semi-shade exposure and a warm frost-free climate; they are ideal for tropical and subtropical climates. They can grow in soils but prefer a well-drained substrate that contains organic matter. Water regularly so that the substrate does not dry out completely; they resist several days of drought. They appreciate that the humidity is high. Fertilize in fall with compost or manure and in early spring with slow-release mineral fertilizer. They do not need pruning. They are quite resistant trees to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings from woody stems. |
Images of the tree Erythrina variegata or Indian coral tree |
 Erythrina variegata  Erythrina variegata  Erythrina variegata |