Erythrina Variegata:
Family: Erythrina Variegata belongs to the Legumes family
Common Name: It is commonly known as Indian Coral Tree
Flowering period: The tree flowers in the months of March and April
Habitat: The Indian coral tree is native to India
Uses: Different parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine as sedatives, antiasthmatic, antiseptic, and astringent drugs. The alkaloids extracted from the leaves of Erythrina variegata are reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity as well. It is also used for treating intestinal worms, anorexia, and cholesterol imbalance.
Key features: Erythrina variegata is a spreading deciduous tree legume that grows around 60-80 ft tall and 20-40 ft wide. The tree is a highly valued ornamental thanks to its brilliant red flowers and is considered one of the gems of the floral world. The tree has many stout branches with curved spines on them. Prickle-like spines are also present on long leaf stalks. The leaves are compound and have three diamond-shaped leaflets. The leaflets are highlighted with a yellow or pale green colour. Before the leaves come out in late winter or early spring, the coral tree puts on a spectacular show with 2-3 bright crimson flowers in dense terminal clusters. The tree sometimes flowers during summer as well. The fruit of the tree is in the form of a bean-like pod with a cylindrical shape and formation of constrictions between reddish brown seeds.