PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes maximum flowering, while partial shade prevents leaf scorch in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, as the plant is drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 7–10; dies back to rhizomes in cold winters and regrows in spring
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate leaves with ovate, glossy green leaflets; turn yellow in fall
- Flower: Dense terminal racemes of bright red tubular flowers, attractive to hummingbirds
- Fruit: Brown pods splitting open in fall to reveal bright red seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering only if plants show signs of wilting in dry spells
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring to support new growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent lush foliage at the expense of blooms
Composted banana peel tea：Fully compost banana peels, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding if desired
- Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late winter to make way for new spring growth
- Thin overcrowded rhizomes every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce competition for nutrients
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and tremors
Humans: Seeds contain erythrina alkaloids; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience in native American wildflower landscapes; valued for supporting pollinators like hummingbirds
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for native gardens; used in pollinator-friendly landscaping
