Coral Tree Seed
Erythrina crista-galli • Fabaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Tree
🌍 Origin Region
Native to South America including Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay; widely cultivated globally in warm temperate to subtropical regions.
📅 Days to Maturity
Grows as a perennial woody plant, taking 2 to 3 years from seed to reach first flowering stage under optimal conditions.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11. Can survive down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit if root-hardy, though top growth may die back in cooler areas.
About This Seed
The seed is hard, smooth, oval-to-bean-shaped with a vibrant glossy red or reddish-brown seed coat. The resulting plant is a small deciduous tree or large shrub known for its brilliant, coral-red, pea-like flowers arranged in striking racemes and trifoliate leaves.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring and Summer; start indoors or direct sow in frost-free climates. Intolerant of heavy frost when young.
Germination
Germinates in 10 to 21 days at an optimal soil temperature of 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. High germination rate. Scarification (nicking the hard seed coat) and soaking in warm water for 24 hours significantly improves and accelerates germination. Light is not strictly required until emergence.
Planting Instructions
Plant 0.5 to 1 inch deep, spaced 12 to 24 inches apart if starting in nursery beds. Prefers well-draining, fertile loamy or sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours daily). Moderate watering needs once established; drought tolerant for periods, but regular moisture aids vigorous growth. Does not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Companion Plants
Beneficial when planted near other sun-loving tropical or subtropical shrubs and perennials. Avoid planting in overly damp areas where root rot could occur.
Special Characteristics
Highly ornamental with striking crimson flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. Exhibits good drought tolerance once established and responds well to heavy pruning.