PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade but may reduce bloom production
Watering
Water deeply during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established, avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates; frost-tender, protect from temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate bright green ovate leaflets, deciduous during dry dormancy
- Flower: Dense racemes of tubular coral-red blooms, 5–7 cm long, attractive to hummingbirds
- Stem/Bark: Thorny grey-brown branches with slightly fissured mature bark
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Prune dead or damaged branches immediately after flowering to maintain canopy shape
- Remove suckers from the base to direct energy to the main trunk and existing branches
- Thin dense interior growth to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Avoid heavy pruning during dormancy to preserve next season's bloom buds
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and muscle tremors
Humans: Contains erythrina alkaloids; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and tropical vibrancy in Central American traditional landscaping
Usage: Ornamental street and garden tree; nectar source for hummingbirds and native pollinators
