Coral tree - Erythrina lysistemon

The Common Coral tree (Erythrina lysistemon) is an ornamental tree species native to South Africa that is widely planted in parks and gardens. It is closely related to the "Kafferboom" or Coastal Coral tree and the Cockspur Coral tree. There is a fairly close resemblance between the common coral tree and the coastal coral tree and they are often confused even in some botanical gardens. Perhaps for this reason the specimen below at the University of Malaga botanical garden is as of yet without a species identification sign.

As you can see from these tree pictures the Common Coral tree is quite a sight when it is in bloom with its bright red flowers that appear at the ends of the new branches before the new leaves of spring.
The smaller branches of this tree species have small thorns on them although these end up wearing off or getting knocked off before too long. As a result the main trunk and branches to not have thorns on them. Another interesting feature of this tree species are its red seeds that are among some of the most beautiful of any tree seeds. They are about 4-5 mm in size and are quite hard which allows them to be used on necklaces.
Below is an image of the flower detail of this tree which is one way to distinguish between the different species of coral trees.

4 comments:

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  2. Where can a coral tree be purchased?

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  3. Coral Tree Inn features a large saltwater pool, barbeque area and guest laundry set , massage & Relaxation Centre amongst luscious tropically landscaped gardens for your perfect Cairns holiday. Tropical continental buffet breakfast is served daily by the pool.

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  4. Where can I purchase a coral tree in Florida?

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