Erythrina crista-galli L. 1767, commonly called Cockspur Coral Tree, Cry Baby Tree, Fireman’s Cap Tree or Ceibo (Seibo), is a small flowering tree, native to South America.

The Cockspur Coral Tree belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and reach a hight up to about 8 meters, rarely up to 10 meters. In Argentina the tropical coral tree with its bright red, strange looking flowers has been enobled to the national tree and the flower became the national flower of Argentina and Uruguay. Erythrina crista-galli is considered as one of the most hardy coral trees. In frosty areas, it will die to the ground and grow back in spring. Seeds are poisonous if ingested ! The Cockspur coral tree is best grown in full sun and is quite drought tolerant, what makes the tropical plant suitable for Xeriscaping, a form of gardening, where supplemental water from irrigation is reduced or completely eliminated.

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Image: Cockspur Coral Tree (Erythrina crista-galli)