Water
Water regularly, especially during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Ahuijote · Bucago · Bucayo
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Erythrina fusca, the purple coraltree, is a striking flowering tree native to tropical America, known for its vibrant purple blooms and spiny branches.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, sandy loam to clay
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced fertilizer, half strength.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains toxic alkaloids, particularly in seeds and roots.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and control size. This can be done after flowering or in late winter before new growth begins. Heavy pruning may be needed for rejuvenation.
Propagate from seeds, which require scarification or soaking to improve germination. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood during the appropriate seasons.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, only when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Purple Coraltree (Erythrina fusca)
Where Purple Coraltree (Erythrina fusca) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
| Species | Erythrina fusca |
Similar in genus Erythrina
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data