PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade in extremely hot climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply during active growth; reduce watering in dry dormancy to avoid root rot; ensure well-drained soil
Temperature
Thrives in 18–30°C; frost-sensitive; protect young trees from temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate, glossy green leaflets with distinctive sickle-shaped (falcate) tips; drops during dry dormancy
- Flower: Dense, hanging racemes of bright red pea-like blooms with protruding long stamens
- Stem/Bark: Thorny branches with grey-brown, rough bark covered in sharp, prominent prickles
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; apply mulch to retain moisture
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prioritize flowering over excessive foliage
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid debris to prevent pests and odorPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring before new growth emerges
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Trim back overly long shoots to maintain a compact, balanced canopy
- Remove suckers growing from the tree base to prevent overcrowding
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to erythrina alkaloids; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and tremors
Humans: Ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset; skin irritation from thorny contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes vitality and seasonal renewal in Brazilian folk traditions
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; lightweight wood used for small construction projects; traditional medicinal uses require strict dosage control due to toxicity
