Coral Tree, Purple Coral Tree, Bois Immortelle, Immortelle, Bukbuk
Erythrina fusca
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Erythrina fusca is used as a living fence, windbreak, and shade tree in permaculture systems. It is nitrogen-fixing, improving soil fertility. The flowers are edible and attract pollinators. The leaves are sometimes used as green manure. Caution: seeds can be toxic.
Permapeople description
Swamp Immortelle, a fast-growing tree species.
Botanical description
Erythrina fusca is a fast-growing, deciduous tree, typically reaching 15-27 meters in height. It has a broad, spreading crown and a relatively short trunk. The bark is smooth and gray, becoming fissured with age. Leaves are trifoliate, with large, ovate leaflets. Flowers are typically bright orange-red, borne in dense racemes. Fruits are long, cylindrical pods containing reddish-brown seeds. It is adapted to wet, tropical environments.
Companion planting
Erythrina fusca is often used as a companion plant for crops that benefit from shade and nitrogen fixation, such as cacao, coffee, and vanilla. It can provide wind protection for more delicate plants. It is generally considered a beneficial companion plant.
Propagation methods
Erythrina fusca can be propagated by seeds (scarification recommended to improve germination), cuttings, and air layering. Seed propagation is most common, but cuttings can produce faster results.
History and traditions
In various cultures, Erythrina fusca has been used traditionally in agroforestry systems, often interplanted with crops like cacao and coffee to provide shade and improve soil quality. Some cultures have used the flowers and leaves for medicinal purposes, although caution is advised due to potential toxicity of seeds. It's been used in some regions for traditional crafts.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs during the dry season. Leaf drop occurs during the dry season. Seed pods mature several months after flowering. Planting is best done at the beginning of the rainy season. Pruning can be done after flowering or during the dormant season.