Common Name:
Cockspur coral tree
Plant Type:
Evergreen tree
Family:
Fabaceae (The Pea Family)
Geographic Origin:
South America
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
10 feet+ high
Landscape/Garden Uses:
Foundation plantings
Flowering Season:
Summer

Flower Color:
Red
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Most soils

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 15-20 degrees F.

This is an openly branched shrub or tree with stout stems, the bark studded with thorns. The leaves are large, long-stalked and divided into threes, generally lush and tropical-looking. Flower spikes carry bright red, beak-like blossoms in the summer months. Sun or light shade, reasonably well drained soil, moderate watering. Hardy to 15-20 degrees F., resprouting after apparently lethal winter damage. Severe annual frost damage will promote shrubbier growth.