Erythrina herbacea, 'Ella Mae' Coralbean

Coralbean (Erythrina herbacea) gets a common name from its coral-colored seeds. It is a semi-deciduous to evergreen woody shrub found in coastal hammocks, sandhills, flatwoods, mesic and upland woods, and pine rocklands throughout Florida. Its striking pink-blushed flowers attract hummingbirds, bumble bees and butterflies.

Coralbean’s flowers are born in long (4–6+ inches) terminal racemes. Individual flowers may be as long as 3 inches. Leaves are compound and composed of three light green leaflets. 

Family: Fabaceae (Legume or pea family)
Native range: Nearly throughout
Hardiness: 7B–11
Soil: Dry, sandy or calcareous soil
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Growth habit: 3–8’ tall, but has been known to grow as tall as 20’
Propagation: Cuttings
Garden tips: Coralbean is an incredibly versatile plant. Left alone and in the right conditions, it can grow to the size of a small tree. Trimmed back, it works well as a border or mass planting and in container or above-ground planters. It is drought and salt tolerant and pest resistant, making it the perfect addition to your Florida landscape. It is very showy when it blooms.
Caution: This plant contains toxic alkaloids that may result in paralysis if ingested. Keep it away from pets and small children. Gloves are recommended when working with seeds.