Erythrina caffra Coast coral tree

Indigenous; 10m
Planting position: Full sun or semi-shade. Ideal for subtropical coastal areas.
Requires regular watering, until established. Well-draining, sandy soil. Complete fertiliser annually.
Propagate from root cuttings or seed in spring.

This tree proves popular as a shading tree, and also bears striking red flowers in late spring, followed by pods with red seeds. The trunk and stems have sharp, hooked thorns.
Erythrina lysistemon (Common coral tree 10m) is beautiful and similar to the E.Caffra, bearing striking red, narrower flowers in spring and pods with red seeds.