Cockspur Coral Tree Erythrina crista-galli 5 Seeds USA Company

Erythrina crista-galli, commonly known as the cockspur coral tree, is a species of flowering tree in the family Fabaceae. Here are some key features and information about it:

Description

Size and Form: This tree typically grows to a height of 5-10 meters (16-33 feet), but under ideal conditions, it can reach up to 20 meters (66 feet). It has a spreading, irregular crown with thick, thorny branches.

Leaves: The leaves are compound, usually consisting of three leaflets. Each leaflet is ovate to lanceolate in shape, with a smooth or slightly wavy edge.

Flowers: Erythrina crista-galli is renowned for its striking and vibrant red flowers, which are arranged in dense, terminal racemes. The flowers are shaped like a bird's beak and are typically 4-5 cm long. Blooming usually occurs in spring and summer.

Fruit: The fruit is a pod, which can be up to 20 cm (8 inches) long. The pods contain several seeds that are dark brown to black in color.

Habitat and Distribution

Native Range: Erythrina crista-galli is native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay.

Habitat: It is commonly found in moist, low-lying areas such as riverbanks, wetlands, and marshes.

Cultivation

Climate: It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates but can also tolerate mild temperate zones. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Watering: The tree requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. However, it is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Propagation: Propagation is typically done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water before planting to improve germination rates.

Uses and Cultural Significance

Ornamental: Due to its striking flowers, Erythrina crista-galli is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.

Cultural Symbol: In Argentina and Uruguay, it is the national flower, symbolizing the beauty of their natural landscapes.

Growing Instructions for the Cockspur Coral Tree

The seeds have a hard seed coat that has to be treated, or scarified, in order for water to enter the seeds so that they can sprout. 1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery board. 2. Soak the seeds in water for several hours. 3. Put a mixture of potting soil and sand or perlite into a pot with drainage holes in the base. The soil should be moist and well-drained. 4. Sow the seeds on the soil. 5. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 6. Water the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not wet. 7. When the plants are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.