Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Erythrina variegata L. var. carnea

Frost-tender shrub or small tree with prickly stems and pale pink or red flowers.  [Don].  Erythrina variegata L. is somewhat variable.  Carnea probably differs only in having pinker flowers.

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘We are obliged to Mr. Herbert, for the drawing of this scarce shrub, which flowered in the hothouse at Spofforth, in the early part of last spring.  The species was introduced by Dr. Houston, from Vera Cruz, before 1733.’  [BR f.389/1819].

History at Camden Park

Listed in the 1850 and 1857 catalogues [T.425/1850].  An old specimen of Erythrina variegata survives at Camden Park, whether carnea or not I am unsure as I have never seen it in flower.  But as Erythrina indica was not listed in the catalogues after 1850 perhaps carnea is more likely.  See also Erythrina variegata L.

Notes

Published Dec 19, 2009 - 05:01 PM | Last updated Jul 21, 2010 - 11:56 AM

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Figured is a flowering shoot with trifoliate leaves and upright raceme of pink flowers. Botanical Register f.389/1819.

Erythrina variegata L. var. carnea | BR f.389/1819 | BHL

Family Fabaceae
Category
Region of origin

Tropical and sub-tropical regions from Africa to Asia
Synonyms
  • Erythrina indica Lam.
  • Erythrina carnea Blanco
  • Erythrina americana Mill. 
Common Name

Indian Coral Tree
Name in the Camden Park Record

Erythrina carnea 
Confidence level high