Coral Tree

erythrina caffra

Also known as: ["African Coral Tree","Kaffirboom"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Erythrina Category: Trees

Overview

A large, deciduous tree native to southeastern Africa, known for its vibrant red flowers that resemble coral branches.

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 caffra

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, or large container in a sheltered patio
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
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 if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm climates.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer

Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning and heading back to maintain shape and health.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary for growth and health.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

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

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.

Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; avoid planting in frost-prone areas; mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring/summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during active growth.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Erythrina caffra may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Erythrina caffra can be caused by water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Erythrina caffra may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Erythrina caffra due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant mortality.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Erythrina caffra. Ingestion can result in severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.

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

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant's toxic alkaloids can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress in dogs. Ingestion may lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, or even death if untreated.

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

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Erythrina caffra contains toxic alkaloids that can cause severe physiological effects when ingested. The toxins interfere with the nervous system and can lead to paralysis or respiratory failure in severe cases.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting dizziness paralysis respiratory distress
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets.
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 caffra toxic to pets?

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

Q: Does the Coral Tree attract wildlife?

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

Q: How difficult is it to care for Erythrina caffra?

A: It requires moderate care and maintenance.

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