Tiger’s Claw

(Erythrina variegata)

Tiger’s Claw (Erythrina variegata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Erythrina variegata, commonly known as Tiger’s Claw, is a deciduous tree native to coastal forests, open woodlands, and forest edges in South and Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It can reach a height of 27 meters (89 feet) with a spreading crown. The tree is notable for its thorny branches and dense clusters of bright scarlet or crimson flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring before the leaves emerge, attracting pollinators and providing a striking display. The flowers are followed by black seeds contained within long pods. Tiger’s Claw is often used as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical gardens due to its showy flowers and its ability to provide shade.

In cultivation, Tiger’s Claw is valued for its ease of maintenance and tolerance to a range of soil types, including those with fast, medium, or slow drainage. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. This species is drought-tolerant once established and can be used in urban planting, as a specimen tree, or for creating natural barriers due to its thorny nature. However, it is important to be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range, as it can outcompete local flora. Gardeners should consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 40-60 feet
  • Width: 40-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Red
  • Flowering Season: Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to coastal forests, open woodlands, and forest edges in South and Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands

Other Names

Common Names: Dwarf Erythrina, Easter Flower, Indian Coral Tree, Thorny Dadap, Coraltree, Indian Coraltree, Arbre A Corail, Bois Inmortel Vrai, Pignon D’Inde, Dadap

Scientific Names: , Erythrina variegata, Erythrina orientalis, Erythrina indica, Erythrina corallodendron, Erythrina picta, Erythrina variegata var. orientalis, Erythrina boninensis, Erythrina indica var. picta, Erythrina phlebocarpa

GBIF Accepted Name: Erythrina variegata L.