Erythrina leptorhiza Moc. & Sessé ex DC.

Growth Form

Unlike most Erythrina species, which are typically woody trees or shrubs, Erythrina leptorhiza is a herbaceous perennial.

Genus-Typical Traits

Its bright orange flowers and trifoliate leaves are otherwise typical of the Erythrina genus.

Leaf Retention

The plant retains leaves through most of its flowering period.

Inflorescence Appearance

However, when its striking clusters of flowers (called inflorescences) emerge from the soil on top of stiff peduncles, they can appear to rise leafless directly from the ground.

Common Name Status

This species has no accepted English common name.

Indigenous Common Names

In Mexico, it is sometimes known by the indigenous names ococha, patol, or cochizquilit.

Native Range

It grows in the highlands of Mexico's Western Sierra Madre, central Mexico, and extends south into Oaxaca.