Erythrina corallodendron — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Erythrina corallodendron

Erythrina Corallodendron

Updated · 23 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Erythrina corallodendron, the red bean tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Caribbean; Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, the Leeward Islands, and the Windward Islands, and has been introduced to Trinidad and Tobago, Kenya, Réunion, and the Malay Peninsula. A small tree usually 3 m (10 ft) tall, but rarely reaching 10 m (33 ft), and with showy flowers, it is often planted as an ornamental.

A note from PlantMom

The Indian coral tree is quite resistant to diseases and typically does not suffer from many illnesses. Regarding maintenance, this species is fairly easy to care for. Planted outside, it needs only light watering, and mature specimens usually do not require pruning. Young or smaller specimens, however, should be trimmed following their bloom. The Indian coral tree is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, like a garden or a deck, and does not demand much gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Erythrina Corallodendron.

Light

The Indian coral tree grows best with steady, plentiful daylight for optimal development. Consistent ample sunlight is essential to its health and promotes vibrant foliage and flower production. Originating from areas with abundant daylight, it can be stunted by too little light or have its foliage burned by too much. It shows no specific sunlight adaptations at different stages of growth.

Water

Shrove Tuesday thrives in environments with high humidity and consistent moisture. It prefers to be watered every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. To prevent root rot, it requires well-draining soil. Due to its size and ornamental qualities, Shrove Tuesday is typically grown outdoors.

Temperature

The Indian coral tree originates from temperate climates where temperatures range from 41 to 89.6 °F (5 to 32 °C). It naturally thrives in these conditions, but seasonal adjustments are necessary in periods of extreme cold or heat to ensure its growth.

Fertilizer

Applying fertilizer at the right time is important for the Indian coral tree. Start fertilizing in early spring and continue on a monthly basis until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.

Pruning

Shrove Tuesday is an ideal time for early spring pruning. This process involves removing any dead or diseased wood and shaping overgrown branches. Pruning encourages healthy growth and results in abundant blooms. Additionally, it improves airflow and reduces the risk of disease. For the best healing results, make your cuts just above a leaf node.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Erythrina
Family
Fabaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-8
Mature Height
15.24 m to 18.29 m
Mature Spread
11.89 m to 14.94 m
Leaf Color
Variegated
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
Bloom Time
Spring
Planting Time
Summer
Harvest Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Native Area
Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Madagascar, Bangladesh, Laos, Fiji, Brunei, Tanzania, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Japan, Thailand
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Coral Erythrina en Coraltree en Common coral tree en Common coral bean en Coral bean tree
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

What's the best way to water my Shrove Tuesday?

To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves. If the plants are outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will need more water. You can use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots, covering the entire garden or bed, when adding or removing plants. Remember to drain excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On sunny days, it's advisable to spray the entire bush with water. Whether in a pot or in the ground, Shrove Tuesday plants prefer deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

Why should I put fertilizer on my Shrove Tuesday?

To ensure your Shrove Tuesday plant produces beautiful blooms, it is important to fertilize it. Fertilizing in early spring is particularly effective for enhancing the flower quality during the season. Additionally, fertilizer provides the plant with energy that it can store in the ground during its dormant growth phases. By giving your Shrove Tuesday plant extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, you help it retain more energy to use when it becomes actively growing again.

How many hours of sunlight does Shrove Tuesday need per day to grow healthily?

To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to give Shrove Tuesday at least 3–6 hours of sunlight daily. This is considered the minimum requirement, as most plants that can handle partial sunlight can also thrive under full sunlight. These plants are more flexible in terms of light requirements for photosynthesis compared to plants that specifically need full sunlight or partial shade.

What is the best temperature for Shrove Tuesday?

Shrove Tuesday thrives best in temperatures between 65-80℉(18-27℃). During the main growing phase, the highest temperature it can tolerate is 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature is 15℉(-10℃). This species can handle low temperatures and survive freezing winters. So, the ideal temperature range would be: Perfect: 65-80℉(18-27℃), Highest: 85-95℉(30-35℃), and Lowest: -5-15℉(-20 to -10℃) or even below.

What should I do if I use too much/not enough water for Shrove Tuesday?

When a Shrove Tuesday plant is overwatered, its leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt. The plant may appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. If you notice these signs, it's best to adjust your watering schedule. However, wilting can also be a sign of under watering. Underwatered leaves tend to become crispy and dry, while overwatered leaves become soft and wilted. To determine if the soil is dry, check it before watering to ensure it truly needs moisture. If necessary, give the plant a thorough watering. Although this will help the Shrove Tuesday plant recover, it may still have dry, yellow leaves in the following days due to root damage. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of the leaves will cease. When keeping the Shrove Tuesday plant indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot to avoid overwatering. If black spots are present, allow the soil to dry by refraining from watering for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so transfer the plant to a different pot if you observe discolored and slimy roots. It's crucial to prevent root rot by avoiding overly soggy soil. When planting the Shrove Tuesday outdoors, ensure the soil is adequately watered by digging a little deeper. If the soil feels too dry, it may indicate underwatering. In such cases, providing sufficient water is necessary for the plant to recover.

When should I put fertilizer on my Shrove Tuesday plant?

When fertilizing Shrove Tuesday, timing is crucial. Avoid using fertilizer too early when the Shrove Tuesday is still dormant, as it won't be effective and will be washed away by rainwater, leading to waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be done in early spring, followed by monthly applications until early summer.

What kind of sunlight does Shrove Tuesday need?

Shrove Tuesday plants thrive in full or partial sun. They prefer direct morning light, but during the summer, it's important to shield them from the intense afternoon sun. In temperate environments, excessive afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, harming the plant's overall look and well-being.

Do I need to change the temperature for Shrove Tuesday at different times it's growing?

According to research, if the temperatures are too high, especially when Shrove Tuesday is developing buds and shoots, it can affect its growth and cause stunted growth. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures, around 65℉(18℃).

How much water does my Shrove Tuesday need?

To properly care for your Shrove Tuesday plants, it's important to understand their watering needs. If you have them in pots, they will need to be soaked with a gallon of water each time. Potted plants dry out faster due to limited water storage, so watering every 3 to 5 days is necessary, especially in cold regions. Water them in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors. A simple way to check if watering is needed is by feeling the soil - if the top 2-3 inches are dry, it's time to water thoroughly. In hot weather, check the moisture daily as the pot's soil can dry out quickly. For gardens, irrigation is also necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is recommended. Check the soil regularly and water when about 2 to 3 inches of it are too dry, whether it's indoors or outdoors. Take into account natural rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Shrove Tuesday plants typically grow in spring and fall, so when they are outdoors, add a layer of 3 to 4 inches of mulch to retain more moisture. Sandy soil drains faster, so more frequent watering is required. On the other hand, clay soil retains moisture longer, allowing for less frequent watering (every 2-3 days) without risking root rot. To help keep track, mark the dates on the calendar and pay attention to any drooping leaves, as this may indicate the need for more timely watering.

When is it best to not add fertilizer to my Shrove Tuesday plant?

To ensure optimal growth, it is important to be mindful of Shrove Tuesday's fertilizer needs. Avoid using fertilizers with excessive nitrogen content as this can result in abundant foliage but limited blooming. Instead, opt for fertilizers that have a lower nitrogen-to-nutrient ratio compared to others. Furthermore, refrain from fertilizing after early autumn, as this can encourage excessive growth right before winter. Additionally, avoid fertilizing Shrove Tuesday during hot and dry periods, as dry soil does not efficiently deliver nutrients and this can stimulate growth that requires more water, which may not be available. For best results, apply fertilizer earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Lastly, keep in mind that Shrove Tuesday can absorb nearby plant or lawn fertilizers, so exercise caution to prevent inadvertently providing the tree or shrub with an excessive amount of fertilizer.

Can the sun harm Shrove Tuesday? How can I prevent the sun and heat from damaging Shrove Tuesday?

Shrove Tuesday plants that are grown indoors can be easily harmed by direct sunlight if they are suddenly moved outdoors. To avoid sunburn, it is best to gradually transition them from a shaded area to a brighter spot. However, even plants that are used to the sun in the summer can still be damaged by intense heat. During a heatwave, it is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist so that the plants can handle the excessive heat levels. If there is extreme weather, such as scorching temperatures, it is helpful to relocate potted plants to shady areas or cover them with shade cloth to protect sensitive Shrove Tuesday plants.

How can I make sure Shrove Tuesday stays warm during cold seasons?

Shrove Tuesday is a resilient plant that can tolerate freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that do not drop below 15℉ (-10℃) during winter. However, if planted in pots or containers, it is important to shield the roots from the cold weather. This can be done by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors, where it will be completely protected from the elements.

PLATES
Erythrina corallodendron leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Erythrina corallodendron leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Erythrina corallodendron flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Erythrina corallodendron flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Erythrina corallodendron fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Erythrina corallodendron bark
PLATE 06 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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