Coastal Coral Tree

Edibility: 

The seeds (lucky beans) are toxic and should not be ingested. The flowers are rich in nectar and are sometimes nibbled by children, but the plant is not generally considered edible for human consumption beyond the nectar.

Toxicity: 

The seeds (lucky beans) are toxic and contain alkaloids that can be poisonous if ingested. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and central nervous system effects. While serious poisonings are rare from casual handling, ingestion should be avoided. The bark and roots also contain toxic compounds.

Uses:

• Ornamental: Widely planted as a striking specimen tree in gardens, parks, and along roadsides for its spectacular floral display.

• Shade Tree: Its broad, spreading crown provides excellent shade in summer.

• Erosion Control: Its strong root system helps stabilise soil on slopes and in coastal areas.

• Traditional Medicine: Various parts of the tree (bark, roots, leaves) are used in traditional medicine for a range of ailments, including pain relief, inflammation, and skin conditions, but always with caution due to potential toxicity.

• Living Fence: Branches can be planted directly into the ground and will readily root, forming a living fence.

• Fodder: Leaves are occasionally browsed by livestock, but the seeds are toxic.

Ecology: 

Erythrina afra is a critical ecological component. Its vibrant, nectar-rich flowers are a magnet for numerous pollinators, including sunbirds (e.g., Greater Double-collared Sunbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird), other birds (e.g., Cape White-eye), insects (e.g., bees), and sometimes vervet monkeys. The dense crown provides nesting sites and shelter for birds. The seeds, while toxic to humans, are dispersed by birds and other animals (though typically only after the pod opens). It is a larval host plant for several butterfly species, including the Common Sailer (Neptis saclava) and various Swallowtails.

Distribution and habitat: 

Erythrina afra is endemic to the coastal regions of South Africa. It is naturally found in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and sometimes extends into the southern Western Cape (e.g., along rivers in the George area). It typically grows along rivers, in coastal forests, dune thickets, and open woodlands, preferring moist but well-drained areas.

Derivation of name:

• Erythrina: The genus name is derived from the Greek word "erythros," meaning "red," referring to the typically red or orange flowers found in most species within this genus.

• afra: The specific epithet is Latin, meaning "African," indicating its origin from the African continent.

• Historical Naming: This species has historically been known as Erythrina caffra. While Erythrina caffra is still widely used, especially in horticulture, modern botanical consensus, including by SANBI, often uses Erythrina afra to refer specifically to the coastal species (which is distinct from inland Erythrina lysistemon and other Erythrina species). The name change reflects ongoing research to accurately classify species.

Historical aspects: 

Erythrina afra has a long and significant history in South Africa. Its showy flowers have made it an iconic and beloved tree, widely planted even in colonial times. Indigenous communities have traditionally used its wood for various purposes, and its bark and roots in traditional medicine, albeit with awareness of their potent properties. Its strong root system has also been harnessed for soil stabilisation and as living fences. It was one of the first South African trees to be introduced to cultivation in Europe, valued for its ornamental appeal.

Interesting facts:

• This tree is like a living alarm clock for birds – its bright orange-red flowers are packed with nectar, attracting sunbirds from all over!

• Its common name "Coral Tree" perfectly describes its vibrant, fiery flowers that pop out like colourful coral branches in winter.

• The seeds are famous "lucky beans" – bright red with a black spot, often collected and made into jewellery (but remember, they're toxic to eat!).

• It's one of the few trees that flowers on bare branches in winter, giving a spectacular show when most other trees are just green.

• You can actually grow a new tree by simply sticking a branch into the ground – how cool is that for a living fence?

Growing tips:

• Light: Thrives in full sun for best flowering, but can tolerate light shade.

• Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay. It prefers fertile soil but tolerates poorer conditions.

• Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, especially when young. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant.

• Frost Protection: Young trees are sensitive to frost and should be protected. Mature trees are moderately frost hardy but may suffer damage in severe frost.

• Propagation: Easily propagated from large stem cuttings (truncheons) or from seeds (scarify seeds and soak in hot water overnight before planting).

• Growth Rate: Has a moderate to fast growth rate.

• Pruning: Responds well to pruning. Prune after flowering to shape the tree, remove dead branches, or manage its size. Be mindful of thorns.

• Placement: Excellent as a large specimen tree, shade tree, street tree, or for stabilising slopes. Avoid planting too close to foundations due to its size.