Orange Coral Tree, Cowhorn Coral Tree

erythrina fusca

Also known as: ["Orange Flame Tree","Purple Coral Tree"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Erythrina Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree native to tropical regions, known for its vibrant orange-red flowers and spiny stems.

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 fusca

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, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure bright light indoors.

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 indoor light if acclimating.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, tropical conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize after watering.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds.

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 growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm (75–85°F), partial shade.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of branches; avoid topping.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots.
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 chlorosis in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Leaves may drop; growth slows; roots can rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; reduce watering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mist foliage in extreme heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Erythrina fusca can result from water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Erythrina fusca may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Erythrina fusca, particularly root or stem rot, is often caused by overwatering or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Erythrina fusca is toxic to cats, with the seeds, flowers, and bark containing alkaloids that can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be life-threatening.

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

if eaten

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

The seeds, flowers, and bark of Erythrina fusca are toxic to dogs due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes if untreated.

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

if eaten

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

Erythrina fusca contains toxic alkaloids, particularly in its seeds, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The alkaloids interfere with the nervous system and can lead to paralysis or respiratory failure in severe cases.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs.
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 fusca 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 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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