Erythrina speciosa aka Coral Tree

Erythrina speciosa is a shrub or small tree from Brazil. It belongs to Fabaceae, the pea family. Its native range covers eastern and southern Brazil. There, it grows in the Atlantic rainforest on coastal plains. It favours open ground and areas where woodland has regrown. These sites often have very damp or swampy soil. The species grows both wild and in cultivation.

This spiny plant sheds its leaves and forms an open crown. It reaches about 10–16 feet [3–5 metres] in height. The source also gives 13 feet [4 metres] as a reference height. Its trunk has rough bark with a corky texture. Trunk width ranges from about 0.5–0.8 feet [0.15–0.25 metres]. Its flowers provide its main display value in gardens. Birds and insects pollinate them, according to the species record. The same record lists the plant as self-fertile.

Give this species a sunny place and moist to wet soil. These needs match the damp, open sites within its native range. Growth is fast when conditions suit it. Plants raised from seed can reach 10 feet [3 metres] within two years. Fresh seed gives good results when sown soon after ripening. Sow it in separate pots in a partly shaded place. Fresh seeds may sprout in 10–20 days. Seedlings grow fast and can reach planting size within four months. Stored, dry seed may benefit from scarification before sowing.

In Brazil, gardeners grow this plant as a hedge. Its small-tree form also suits planting along narrow streets. It has a place in general landscape planting and woodland gardens. It can serve as a pioneer when restoring native woodland. These uses draw on its quick growth and value in flower. Its wood weighs little and has a smooth, porous texture. It lacks durability and yields only small pieces. People seldom use it, though it can make light boxes.

The source records no known food or medicinal uses for this species. That does not establish that it is safe to eat. It warns against ingestion but lacks species-specific measurements of toxic alkaloids. The supplied evidence gives no bloom months or cold-hardiness rating. It also gives no species-specific account of pests or diseases.