Erythrina variegata aka Coraltree

Erythrina variegata, the Indian coral tree, belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. Its native range runs from Tanzania to the Pacific. It grows in coastal forests, lowland scrub, and along dry mangrove edges. These sites often have sandy loam soils. People grow it across the tropics, with wide use in India. Useful Tropical Plants reports its 2013 IUCN status as Least Concern.

This deciduous tree has many branches and sheds its leaves. A cultivated height of about 66 feet [20 metres] provides a useful guide. The reported full range is 10–89 feet [3–27 metres]. Young trees grow fast, then slow as they age. Unpruned trees can reach 49–66 feet [15–20 metres] within eight to ten years. The trunk has deep grooves, and its thick branches hold much sap. Large prickles grow at scattered points on trunks and branches. Garden-grown forms often lack these prickles. Trees may live for about a century.

The flowers make the tree useful for display. Both birds and insects pollinate it, and the species is self-fertile. Its fruits form seedpods. Beyond its garden role, the tree gives shade and forms living fences and hedges. Farmers use it to support crops such as pepper, grape, and yam. They also plant it to help conserve soil. Its many uses make it part of farm tree systems in Asia and the Pacific.

The tree grows in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions. It suits sites with moderate soil fertility and good drainage. It prefers soil pH between 5 and 7. It can also tolerate values from 4.5 to 7.5. Salt spray and moderate salt levels in soil are tolerated. Best growth occurs where yearly rainfall reaches about 31–59 inches. Fresh seed needs no special treatment before sowing. Older seed develops a hard coat that can delay germination.

The soft, light wood serves for carving, toys, floats, and local craft work. Bark also supplies fibre for cord. Traditional medicine uses both leaves and bark. Young leaves and shoots have recorded use as cooked vegetables, including in curries. Those food uses do not establish that the plant is safe. Leaves, bark, and seeds contain toxic compounds. Some act on the nervous system. These hazards matter despite its history of food and medicinal use.