How to Grow Cockspur Coral Tree
Erythrina crista-galli
Grow in full sun in a large container filled with free-draining compost. In frost-prone climates, bring indoors before the first frost (keep above 5°C) and move back out after the last frost. Cut back to a framework each spring to keep the plant compact and encourage vigorous new flowering growth. Water moderately in summer; keep almost dry in winter dormancy. Feed fortnightly during active growth. Expects little else — given sun, warmth, and a dry winter rest, it reliably produces its spectacular scarlet flower spikes each summer.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring as growth resumes. Container plants benefit from a liquid feed every two weeks during active growth.
Watch For
- Scale insects
- Spider mites (in dry conditions)
- Powdery mildew
- Frost damage to young shoots
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun promotes the best flowering. Will tolerate brief periods of light shade but blooms suffer.
Watering
Moderate; almost dry in winter
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the top few centimetres to dry between waterings. Reduce significantly in autumn and keep almost dry during winter dormancy to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing
Balanced feed fortnightly in summer
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks during active growth. Slow-release granules in spring also work well. Avoid excessive nitrogen which promotes leaf at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Cut back to framework in late winter
Prune hard back to a sturdy framework in late winter or early spring before bud break. This keeps container specimens compact and encourages vigorous new flowering wood each year.
Overwintering
Frost-free indoors; minimum 5°C
Move containers indoors before the first frost. A cool, frost-free space (5-10°C) is ideal. Keep nearly dry, reduce light, and avoid heat. Move back outdoors after the last frost when temperatures are reliably above 10°C.
