Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Erythrina crista-galli--Cockspur Coral Trees



Many kinds of coral trees are in cultivation, but it is the Cockspur Coral Tree that is in bloom now at the UC Botanical Garden. The large orange-red flowers are just stunning. This one is called "Cockspur" because it is thorny like the spur on a cock. It is also sometimes called the Cry Baby Tree because nectar drips from the flowers like tears. It is pollinated by birds. I guess they need more nectar then insects. I will see if it attracts hummingbirds. It is a small tree that likes warmth, but can survive in colder climates.

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