Variegated Coral Tree

erythrina variegata

Also known as: ["Madre de Cacao","Tiger Claw Tree","Variegated Coral Bean"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Erythrina Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree known for its striking variegated leaves and bright red flowers, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Erythrina
Botanical Name: Erythrina variegata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth may indicate poor soil drainage or incorrect pH.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Use a mix designed for cacti or succulents; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; may suffer permanent damage in frost.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid cold drafts; water sparingly.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Erythrina variegata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or scale insects. It can also be a sign of chlorosis caused by iron deficiency in alkaline soils.

Wilting in Erythrina variegata can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. Root rot from excessive moisture or drought stress can also lead to wilting, potentially causing permanent damage if not addressed promptly.

Leaf spots on Erythrina variegata are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to necrotic areas on leaves, premature leaf drop, and reduced photosynthetic efficiency. Severe infections can weaken the plant significantly.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Erythrina variegata is often caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils. This can lead to the decay of plant tissues, eventual plant death, and the spread of pathogens to neighboring plants.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Erythrina variegata due to the alkaloids present in the plant. Ingestion can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing seizures paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If poisoning is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Erythrina variegata can lead to severe toxicity due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. These compounds disrupt normal neuromuscular function and can result in life-threatening conditions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness difficulty breathing tremors paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Erythrina variegata contains toxic alkaloids, primarily erysopine and erythrinine, which can cause significant physiological disturbances when ingested. These compounds interfere with neuromuscular transmission and can lead to paralysis or respiratory failure in severe cases.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain muscle weakness respiratory distress paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Erythrina variegata toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How difficult is it to care for?

A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring regular maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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