Coralbean

Erythrina flabelliformis

Native to:
Mexico, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Erythrina
Species:
Erythrina flabelliformis
USDA Symbol:
ERFL7

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
300 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
red

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Sky-pointing moth (Agathodes designalis), Terastia meticulosalis

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
hummingbirds, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid regions, tolerates drought

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Warm then cold/moist stratification (double dormancy) — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water) followed by warm stratification then cold stratification.