Erythrina bidwillii

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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It will remain as a large shrub in cold climates approximately 5 to 10 ft. tall, growing as a small tree if provided protection from cold temperatures. Erythrina bidwillii prefers full sun to light shade and requires moderate water. It has a thorny trunk, and many of the stems bear large spines or thorns. This Indian Coral Tree is incredibly fast-growing, and can provide an instant impact to any landscape.

The foliage and bark are very ornamental. The plant is also very tolerant of urban pollution. This plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies and is considered deer resistant. It displays abundant clusters of red, crimson, or vinous flowers during the summer months.

It is best grown in USDA Zones 8-11. Erythrina bidwillii may be grown in a container in cold regions. It is best to keep this plant on the dry side during the winter months and should be brought indoors when temperatures in the 20s or lower are forecasted. During the winter months, the pot should be placed in a cool spot, out of direct sunlight, and be kept lightly moist until the plant is ready to begin growing in the spring. In the summer, the plant will require regular watering and fertilizing. With regular watering and fertilizing, it will produce a larger, more profuse flowers.

Similar plants:

• Butea monosperma, Butea frondosa, Erythrina monosperma (Flame of the Forest, Dhak, Palas, Bastard Teak, Parrot Tree)
• Erythrina abyssinica, Erythrina tomentosa (Coral Tree)
• Erythrina amazonica (Amazon Coral Tree)
• Erythrina caffra, Erythrina constantiana, Erythrina insignis (South African Coral tree, Kaffirboom)
• Erythrina coralloides (Naked Coral Tree)
• Erythrina crista galli, Erythrina laurifolia (Cry Baby Tree, Cockspur Coral Tree, Cock's Comb Coral Tree)
• Erythrina decora (Namib Coral Tree)
• Erythrina edulis (Chachafruto)
• Erythrina fusca, Erythrina glauca (Cape Kaffirboom, Gallito, Coral bean, Bois Immortelle)
• Erythrina herbacea (Coral tree, Coral bean, Cardinal-spear, Cherokee-bean)