Erythrina falcata

Sunset

Zones 19-25, 27, H1, H2

Full

Moderate

Seeds are poisonous if ingested.

Coral Tree
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Trees, Semi-evergreen

ERYTHRINA

Many species; known and used chiefly in frost-free parts of Arizona, Florida, Southern California, and Hawaii. Valued for brilliant flowers in colors ranging from greenish white through yellow to light or vivid shades of orange and red. The flat, beanlike pods following bloom contain poisonous seeds. Leaves are divided into three leaflets. These are typically thorny plants with strong structural value, both in and out of leaf. To eliminate too rapid, succulent growth and limb breakage in larger species, give little or no irrigation during dry weather and prune after flowering.

Erythrina falcata

Native to Brazil and Peru. This nearly evergreen tree grows 30 to 40 ft. high. Must be in ground several years before it flowers (may take 10 to 12 years). Dark red (occasionally orange-red), sickle-shaped flowers in hanging, spike-like clusters at branch ends in winter, early spring. Some leaves drop at bloom time.