Origin
Erythrina x bidwillii is a hybrid tree, resulting from the crossbreeding of two Australian native species: Erythrina vespertilio and Erythrina crista-galli. The plant is commonly found in eastern Australia, mostly in the subtropical to warm temperate regions, and it can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Common Names
Erythrina x bidwillii is commonly known as Bidwill's Coral Tree or Coral Tree, due to its beautiful coral-colored flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. It is also known as the Illawarra flame tree, due to its large, bright red colored flowers that resemble flames.
Uses
Erythrina x bidwillii is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its stunning flowers and attractive foliage. The plant is often used in landscaping and as a street tree, as it can tolerate a range of soils, from sandy to clay soils, and grows well in both full sun and partial shade. Additionally, the plant is known to attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies.
General Appearance
Erythrina x bidwillii is a deciduous tree, which means it sheds its leaves annually. The leaves are large and trifoliate, meaning they consist of three leaflets, and range in color from bright green to dark green. The tree produces dense clusters of flowers that are 5-7.5 cm in length and have a bright coral-red hue. The flowers bloom in late winter to early spring, and their showy appearance is sure to catch your eye. After flowering, the tree produces long, flat seed pods that contain up to 6-8 seeds. The plant's bark is smooth and mottled, ranging in color from light gray to light brown.
Light requirements
Erythrina x bidwillii requires full sunlight to grow properly. The plant grows best when exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. The plants cannot tolerate high shade levels and may develop weak stems and leaves in low light conditions. It is advisable to plant the Erythrina x bidwillii in an open area with ample sunlight for maximum growth.
Temperature requirements
Erythrina x bidwillii is a plant that thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate higher temperatures, but it requires regular watering to prevent the soil from drying. The plant cannot survive severe frost and high winds, so it is advisable to plant it in a relatively sheltered area.
Soil requirements
The Erythrina x bidwillii is adaptable to various soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be deep enough to allow the roots to penetrate and absorb essential nutrients from the soil. It is advisable to add compost and other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility. The plant also requires regular watering to ensure the soil remains moist.
Cultivation Methods
Erythrina x bidwillii is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It is recommended to grow it in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. It is a fast-growing plant that requires plenty of space to expand. Erythrina x bidwillii can be grown from seed or propagated through stem cuttings, but seed propagation is the most effective method.
Watering Needs
Erythrina x bidwillii needs regular watering to establish and thrive. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Water the plant thoroughly once or twice a week and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. During the summer months, when the plant is actively growing, it may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Erythrina x bidwillii is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it goes through a dormant phase. Using organic fertilizers such as manure or compost is beneficial to the plant's growth and health.
Pruning
Erythrina x bidwillii requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the winter months when it is dormant. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and trim back any unwanted growth. Avoid pruning the plant during the summer months when it is actively growing as this can stunt its growth and damage its health.
Propagation of Erythrina x bidwillii
Erythrina x bidwillii, commonly known as Bidwell's Coral Tree, can be propagated through either seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Erythrina x bidwillii should be collected from the matured pods during the early winter months. They should be kept in a well-lit and dry location for a few days until they are fully dried. Once dried, they can be stored in a cool place until they are ready for planting.
The seeds should be sown in a good quality potting mix, around 5mm deep, and kept in a warm location with plenty of light. The pots should be kept well-watered until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around three weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
Erythrina x bidwillii can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken during the late summer months using healthy and disease-free shoots. The cuttings should be around 10-15cm long and have a diameter of around 5mm.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. They should be placed in a warm location with bright but filtered light and kept well-watered until they are successfully rooted. Rooting usually takes around 6-8 weeks.
Propagation of Erythrina x bidwillii can be a rewarding process for gardeners looking to expand their plant collection. Proper care and attention must be given to ensure successful growth and establishment.
Disease Management
Erythrina x bidwillii, commonly known as the Bidwill's Coral Tree, is a relatively disease-resistant plant. Nevertheless, the plants can develop fungal, viral, and bacterial infections, which can be detrimental to their growth and maturation. To avoid disease incidence, growers should maintain proper plant hygiene measures through routine pruning, removal of the dead or diseased plant parts, and weed control to prevent the build-up of pathogens. Other disease management measures include
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting the Bidwill's Coral Tree is the fungal anthracnose disease. Symptoms include leaf spots, defoliation, and discolored shoots, which can weaken the plants. Another ailment is the powdery mildew fungal infection, which is characterized by a white powder-like coating on the leaves, resulting in poor growth and plant death. The other possible disease is the vascular wilt infection that can lead to yellowing of leaves, wilting of the plant, and eventual death.
Pest Management
The Bidwill's Coral Tree may also suffer pest infestations that can lead to growth retardation and death. The common pests that attack the plant include Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites, and Scale insects. Growers should inspect their plants regularly and use the appropriate insecticides during the early stages of infestation. Horticulturists recommend using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, which involves the use of cultural, physical, and biological control measures to reduce pest populations. Other pest management measures include
Control Measures For Pests
For Aphids, growers can hose the plant using a strong water jet to control the pest infestation. The use of insecticidal soaps and neem oil-based sprays can also eliminate the Aphids. Mealybugs can be physically removed from the plant using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Spider mites can be eliminated using insecticidal soap and neem oil-based sprays. Scale insects can be crushed and removed manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or a soft brush dipped in soapy water can also help control the pest infestation.
