Erythrina is a large genus of plant that contains more than 100 species. All plants of the genus are part of the pea family, and are flowering species. Erythrina plants are trees, with the largest growing to around 100 feet (30 meters) in height. There is some variation in the color of the flowers, but most are red. Two common names for the genus include coral and flame trees.
Trees of the Erythrina genus typically grow in warm, temperate regions, and flourish in both subtropical and tropical conditions. The trees can be found in a number of countries, including the United States, Mexico, Madagascar and Brazil. Certain species can also be found in Asia and Australia.
Despite commonly being called flame trees, not all species have red flowers. For example, some species have green or orange flowers. There is a certain species, known as the Wiliwili, which takes on a number of different colors depending on the exact specimen, and is known to have flowers that are yellow, salmon or orange.
The seeds of the Erythrina trees are usually contained within fruit. These fruits are often of the legume type, and can contain multiple seeds. Legume type fruit is dry and simple, and is sometimes called a pod. An advantage to this type of fruit is that the seeds float on water, and can be carried long distances by a river or on the tide.
Erythrina trees play an important role in nature, as they provide food for a number of animals. For example, the nectar of the flowers is eaten by many different species of birds, including hummingbirds. Insects also eat the leaves of the plant.
A common species is Erythrina caffra, which has orange flowers and is often cultivated for use in gardens. This is because it is easy to cultivate, and also provides color for a large portion of the year. The species grows to a maximum of 36 feet (about 11 meters), although the final size depends on a number of variables, including the quality of soil.
Many different species of Erythrina are used by humans. For example, certain species are used in South America as “shade trees,” which help to provide shade for crops. The flowers of some trees are used as symbols, including the Cockspur Coral Tree which is the national flower of Uruguay and Argentina. Some species have seeds which are used in traditional indigenous medicine as well.