Dwarf Coral Tree

erythrina humeana

Also known as: ["Dwarf Coral Tree","Umbrella Thorn"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Erythrina Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree native to South Africa, known for its vibrant 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 humeana

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, protected from strong winds
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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 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 to rejuvenate.
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; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with root rot; stunted growth due to poor drainage; leaf scorch from incorrect sunlight.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter

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

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.

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

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

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

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with 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 develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth.

Tools

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

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed for vigorous growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the root zone without wetting foliage.
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; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; vulnerable to frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold climates; use frost cloth for outdoor plants.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Erythrina humeana may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Erythrina humeana can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Erythrina humeana may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and premature leaf drop.

Rotting in Erythrina humeana is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and fungal pathogens, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids present in Erythrina humeana. Ingestion can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular effects, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes.

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

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion occurs, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The toxic alkaloids in Erythrina humeana can cause severe poisoning in dogs, affecting their nervous and cardiovascular systems. The toxins disrupt normal muscle function and can lead to life-threatening conditions.

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

if eaten

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

Erythrina humeana contains toxic alkaloids that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. The toxins interfere with neuromuscular transmission and can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular disturbances.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain dizziness weakness difficulty breathing paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep all parts of the plant out of reach of humans, especially children. In case of ingestion, seek immediate medical attention.
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 humeana 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 drought-tolerant is this plant?

A: It is highly drought-tolerant once established.

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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