Other Names:  Coralbean, Cherokee Bean, Red Cardinal

Description:

A deciduous to semi evergreen shrub, or a small tree in frost free environments; roots are hardier so this variety will die back and re-emerge in spring in colder areas; dazzling red flower clusters and seed pods from spring to fall; attracts hummingbirds

Ornamental Features

Coral Bean features showy clusters of scarlet tubular flowers at the ends of the branches from late winter to late spring. The fruits are showy scarlet pods which fade to black over time, which are carried in abundance from early summer to mid fall. It has green deciduous foliage. The glossy pointy leaves do not develop any appreciable fall color.

Landscape Attributes

Coral Bean is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. It is a good choice for attracting bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Spiny
• Self-Seeding

Coral Bean is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Coral Bean will grow to be about 8 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 1 foot from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is particular about its soil conditions, with a strong preference for sandy, acidic soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This species is native to parts of North America, and parts of it are known to be toxic to humans and animals, so care should be exercised in planting it around children and pets..

Lindley's Florida Native

** Florida Native **