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Cockspur Coral Tree Wikimedia Commons
Fabaceae

Cockspur Coral Tree

Erythrina crista-galli

National pride.

Family
Fabaceae
Genus
Erythrina
Native to
South America, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
Bloom season
Summer, Fall
Type
tree
Height
15-25 ft
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy
Water
moderate
Hardiness
8-11
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The cockspur coral tree is the national flower of both Argentina and Uruguay.
  • The common name refers to the curved, spur-like thorns on the branches that resemble a rooster's spur.
  • The brilliant scarlet flowers are arranged in showy racemes and are a major nectar source for hummingbirds.
  • The lightweight, cork-like wood has been traditionally used to make fishing net floats in South America.
  • In colder climates, the tree dies back to the ground each winter but can regrow and bloom on new wood each summer.

Color meanings

0

pride

1

passion

2

courage

Uses

  • ornamental shade tree
  • street tree in warm climates
  • traditional crafts