Erythrina indica CORAL TREE (4 seeds)

Coral Tree, also known as Cockspur Coral Tree (Erythrina), is a plant that grows 3 to 4 meters in height and has low hardiness. A fast-growing species, it belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae). It is primarily found in the warm and tropical regions of both hemispheres.

The flowering is one of the most remarkable aspects of this plant. The flowers are generally bright red and grouped in clusters. They have a tubular shape, making them attractive to pollinators such as birds and bees. The flowering period occurs in early spring.

Its leaves are generally compound and take a trifoliate form. The leaflets are bright green, with a smooth or slightly rough surface, and are carried by long petioles. The leaves are alternate on the stems and can reach a significant size, providing beautiful shade once the tree is mature.

The fruit is a pod. These pods are flat, elongated, and can reach several centimeters in length. The color of the pods varies from green to brown depending on maturity. As the pods dry, they open to release the seeds, facilitating their dispersal. The fruits are often considered ornamental and add visual interest to the plant.

Coral tree seeds are shaped like a small bean, about 6 millimeters long, with an elongated brown part on the underside, and are very light.

- Uses:

The primary interest of Erythrina is its aesthetic value. Its ornamental appeal is highly prized due to its spectacular and unusual flowering.

Coral tree seeds were once used by the Aztecs as a medicinal remedy and as a nootropic plant during religious rituals. In Guatemala, they are used for divination in shamanic rituals.
Do not consume for psychoactive or medicinal effects; cultivate solely for the preservation of the botanical species.

Nowadays, they are mainly used to make necklaces and other ethnic jewelry. In agriculture, this tree also serves as a support for pepper plants.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best period to sow Erythrina begins at the end of May, once the nights are sufficiently warm.
• Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 to 48 hours.
• Plant them at a depth of 5 millimeters in a peat-based substrate with a slightly acidic pH.
• Water copiously upon planting.
• Place the pot in a greenhouse at a temperature between 25 and 30°C.
• Germination takes place 2 to 4 weeks later. It is important to keep the substrate warm day and night.
• Once germinated, repot the seedlings into larger pots or directly into the ground.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It prefers well-drained, light soil rich in organic matter. It can grow in various soil types, but providing a slightly acidic soil is ideal. It is advisable to avoid overly clayey, compact soils or areas that retain too much water.

- Light / Exposure:

This variety requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but good light is essential for achieving an abundant bloom.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

This exotic tree prefers warm climates and does not tolerate frost. It thrives in temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. Freezing temperatures can cause damage; therefore, it is recommended to protect it or bring it indoors in cold regions.

- Watering / Irrigation:

Watering should be moderate. This means watering regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoiding waterlogging the soil. Let the soil dry out well between waterings.

- Maintenance:

It is recommended to fertilize the base with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote flowering. Pruning can be performed to encourage branching and maintain the tree's shape.