Status:
valid
Authors:
Taub. ex Harms
Source:
ildis
Year:
1899
Citation Micro:
Annuario Reale Ist. Bot. Roma7: 96 (1899)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000180942
Common Names
- Black Erythrina
- Black Coral Tree
- Black Coral Bean
Description
Erythrina melanacantha (also called Black-spined Erythrina, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree native to South America. It grows up to 8 m tall and has red flowers. It is found in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, and in dry forests.
Uses & Benefits
Erythrina melanacantha is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a windbreak and for soil stabilization.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Erythrina melanacantha sub. somala (Chiov.) J.B.Gillett
Erythrina melanacantha sub. melanacantha
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Erythrina melanacantha is red and grows in clusters. The seeds are small, dark brown and have a smooth surface. The seedlings are thin and have a light green color.
Cultivation and Propagation
Erythrina melanacantha is a small tree that can reach up to 4 m in height. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is done by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer in a warm, sunny position. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and should be planted in a well-drained soil mix.
Where to Find Erythrina melanacantha
Erythrina melanacantha is native to South America, and can be found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Erythrina melanacantha FAQ
What is the scientific name of Erythrina melanacantha?
Erythrina melanacantha
What is the common name of Erythrina melanacantha?
Black-spined erythrina
What is the natural habitat of Erythrina melanacantha?
Dry, open areas in tropical and subtropical regions
Species in the Erythrina genus
Erythrina atitlanensis,
Erythrina barqueroana,
Erythrina castillejiflora,
Erythrina cobanensis,
Erythrina florenciae,
Erythrina huehuetenangensis,
Erythrina oliviae,
Erythrina pudica,
Erythrina salviiflora,
Erythrina santamartensis,
Erythrina steyermarkii,
Erythrina tajumulcensis,
Erythrina tuxtlana,
Erythrina williamsii,
Erythrina amazonica,
Erythrina americana,
Erythrina buchii,
Erythrina chiapasana,
Erythrina chiriquensis,
Erythrina cochleata,
Erythrina costaricensis,
Erythrina eggersii,
Erythrina flabelliformis,
Erythrina folkersii,
Erythrina gibbosa,
Erythrina globocalyx,
Erythrina goldmanii,
Erythrina grisebachii,
Erythrina guatemalensis,
Erythrina herbacea,
Erythrina hondurensis,
Erythrina lanata,
Erythrina lanceolata,
Erythrina leptopoda,
Erythrina mexicana,
Erythrina pallida,
Erythrina peruviana,
Erythrina petraea,
Erythrina poeppigiana,
Erythrina polychaeta,
Erythrina rubrinervia,
Erythrina schimpfii,
Erythrina similis,
Erythrina smithiana,
Erythrina standleyana,
Erythrina ulei,
Erythrina longipes,
Erythrina cubensis,
Erythrina macrophylla,
Erythrina speciosa,
Species in the Fabaceae family