Coralbean
Erythrina herbacea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Erythrina herbacea is a native shrub producing striking red tubular flowers from March through May across the southeastern United States. This coralbean attracts hummingbirds and thrives in full sun with moderate water needs.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–144" H × 72"–96" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds
Coralbean is a native Texas shrub that produces stunning spikes of bright red tubular flowers in spring. This deciduous plant can reach 6-12 feet tall and wide, creating a bold presence in the landscape. The plant dies back in winter but returns reliably each spring with fresh growth and blooms.
Growing Coralbean
Grow Coralbean in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 144 inches tall and spread 72 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Coralbean takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The bright red flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds, making this an excellent choice for bird-friendly gardens. The nectar-rich blooms provide important early season food for migrating hummingbirds.
Common questions
- When does Erythrina herbacea bloom?
- Erythrina herbacea blooms from March through May, producing clusters of bright red tubular flowers that are particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
- What pollinators visit coralbean flowers?
- Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators of Erythrina herbacea, as the tubular red flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination.
- Where is Erythrina herbacea native?
- Erythrina herbacea is native to the southeastern United States, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does coralbean prefer?
- Erythrina herbacea grows best in full sun to partial sun with medium water requirements, though it can tolerate somewhat drier conditions once established.
- Is Coralbean HOA-friendly?
- Coralbean takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Coralbean fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.