Coral Tree - Erythrina indica

Coral Tree, Erythrina indica

Few trees command attention the way Erythrina indica does. Blazing coral-red flower clusters erupt from bare branches in late winter to spring, delivering a level of seasonal drama that few species can match. At advanced scale, the effect is immediate and unmistakable.

Why Coral Tree

Exceptional flowering presence: Dense clusters of coral-red blooms on bare branches create one of the most striking seasonal displays available in warm-climate planting.
Deciduous structure: The sculptural branch framework holds visual interest year-round, not only during the flowering season.
Broad canopy shade: Reaches 10 to 15 metres at maturity, providing generous light-filtered canopy cover across large-scale landscapes.
Tropical and coastal resilience: Well-suited to warm, frost-free environments including coastal and subtropical properties.
Low ongoing input: Once established, requires minimal intervention to perform at a high level in appropriate climates.

Ideal Applications

Signature specimen planting: Positioned as a standalone feature, advanced stock creates an immediate focal point of exceptional scale and colour.
Resort and hospitality landscapes: Delivers the tropical character expected of high-end leisure and accommodation projects.
Parkland and boulevard planting: Well-scaled for large civic and commercial landscapes where canopy presence and flowering impact are priorities.
Coastal and waterfront properties: Tolerates the conditions of warm coastal sites while adding refined tropical character.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (feature/avenue): 10–15m
Planting Season: Spring to early summer
Soil & Drainage: Well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types including sandy and loamy soils; drought tolerant once established but benefits from adequate moisture during establishment
Establishment Care: Water regularly for the first 6–12 months until the root system is well established, then reduce to occasional deep watering during dry periods. Stake young trees to provide support until the trunk is strong enough to stand independently.

Plant Details

Height: 10–20m
Width: 8–15m
Growth Rate: Fast
Foliage: Deciduous
Light: Full sun
Native to: India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Asia
Flower Colour: Red