Coral bean (Erythrina herbacea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Coral bean on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Coral bean
Erythrina herbacea, commonly known as red-cardinal or coral bean, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico. It is notable for its vibrant red, tubular flower spikes that emerge in spring and its distinctive seed pods containing poisonous red seeds. This plant is an excellent choice for native gardens, woodland edges, or as a low-maintenance ornamental specimen.
Native range
Southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade, benefiting from at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. Watering should be moderate; once established, it is quite drought-tolerant but appreciates regular watering during extended dry periods. The ideal substrate is well-drained, sandy or loamy, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. A common mistake is over-pruning, which can reduce flowering, so it's best to prune only for shaping or to remove dead branches after blooming.
How to save a dying Coral bean
- Warning signs
- Yellow/dropping leaves, soft/black stems, no flowering.
- First aid
- Check roots for rot. Repot in well-draining soil if potted. Prune damaged stems.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage. Doesn't tolerate waterlogging. Lack of direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot isn't severe. Act quickly with drainage and sun.