Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Erythrina variegata or Indian coral tree

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.

Indian coral tree is 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; it's ideal for tropical and subtropical climates.

Tiger's claw 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; Erythrina variegata resists several days of drought. It appreciates that the humidity is high.

Fertilize in fall with compost or manure and in early spring with slow-release mineral fertilizer.

Indian coral tree does not need pruning.

Erythrina variegata is a quite resistant tree to the usual pests and diseases.

Tiger's claw propagates by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings from woody stems.

Images of the tree Erythrina variegata or Indian coral tree