Erythrina arborescens Seeds | Himalayan Coral Tree
LATIN NAME: Erythrina arborescens
COMMON NAME: Himalayan Coral Tree
Plant Profile
Erythrina arborescens, better known as Himalayan Coral Tree, is a tree. The Himalayan coral tree blazes bare branches with dense clusters of scarlet, coral-red flowers in early summer, broad, trifoliate leaves following, and the whole tree carrying the brilliant, tropical look of the erythrinas. Flowers open before leaves, each bloom with long, curved shape, and pods follow through the autumn. Bark stays pale and corky, and tree grows into spreading, open-headed tree of warm valleys. Each of these traits is modest on its own; together they make a garden-worthy plant.
Science & Biotechnology
Erythrina arborescens sits in the Erythrina group, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. Erythrinas are a well-studied group in warm-climate ornamental research, and the Himalayan coral tree appears in studies of flowering trees and bird-pollinated blooms. Breeders and collectors still work with it, so well-kept seed remains available.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Himalayan Coral Tree for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. In warm garden, the Himalayan coral tree sets early summer alight. Scarlet clusters blaze on bare branches before leaves, drawing nectar-feeding birds where they visit, and pods feed birds through the autumn. Spreading, open crown gives generous presence, and tree settles happily in deep, sheltered, well-drained soil. Given the right start, it carries on with minimal intervention.
Coral trees are spectacular flowering legumes; their alkaloids have been studied as muscle-relaxant leads, and they fix nitrogen in tropical agroforestry.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Himalayan Coral Tree, and the process is uncomplicated. Level a tray of loose seed compost, sow evenly, cover to about the seed’s own depth, and keep it moist in full light. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Himalayan Coral Tree repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
If Himalayan Coral Tree appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: