Coral Tree, Crybabytree

Erythrina crista-galli

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Basic Information

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae

Genus: erythrina

Plant ID (slug): erythrina-crista-galli

Numeric ID: 24569

USDA Hardiness: 7-10

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Erythrina crista-galli is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Narcotic Purgative The plant is narcotic and purgative[200].

Known Hazards

The plant contains alkaloids that have powerful narcotic and purgative effects[200]. The seeds of all members of this genus are said to be poisonous[274].