Common Coral Tree
erythrina lysistemon
Also known as: ["Coral Tree","Umbrella Thorn"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to South Africa, known for its vibrant red flowers and umbrella-like canopy.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Erythrina |
| Botanical Name: | Erythrina lysistemon |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area, or large container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best for flowering; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; provide shade in intense heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; focus on spring growth and post-flowering; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushier growth; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering to avoid reducing blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; sterilize tools; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter) if repotting is necessary.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 2–3 years; Erythrina lysistemon is typically grown in the ground, but container-grown plants may need repotting.
Checklist
Repot in spring; use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in sand or perlite for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; young plants are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets; choose hardier cultivars if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced formula; avoid winter feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a light dose of nitrogen-rich fertilizer after flowering; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids present in Erythrina lysistemon, which can lead to severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic alkaloids in Erythrina lysistemon can cause severe poisoning in dogs, affecting their nervous system and leading to serious health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicErythrina lysistemon contains toxic alkaloids that can cause severe physiological effects when ingested. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to significant health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Common Coral Tree suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its large size, it is best suited for spacious outdoor landscapes.
Q: Are the seeds of Erythrina lysistemon poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant, including seeds, are toxic if ingested.
Q: Does the Common Coral Tree require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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