PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for abundant flowering; tolerates light partial shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–10 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate to tropical temperature ranges
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate, ovate leaflets with soft green foliage that drops before flowering
- Flower: Dense terminal racemes of bright scarlet, pea-shaped blooms
- Stem/Bark: Grey-brown bark with curved, sharp spines on young branches
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at the start of growth. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried, sterile eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of the tree to boost soil calcium and reduce blossom end rot riskPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to shape the canopy and remove dead or damaged branches
- Trim back overgrown suckers to maintain the tree's desired size and form
- Remove any thorny lower branches to improve safety in high-traffic areas
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to erythrina alkaloids; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
Humans: Ingestion of seeds or bark causes mild gastrointestinal upset; contact with spines may cause skin irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes passion and vitality in Brazilian folk traditions
Usage: Ornamental landscape tree; lightweight wood used for small construction projects in native regions
