Erythrina senegalensis DC.

Growth Form and Size

Erythrina senegalensis DC. grows as a tree, reaching up to 7 metres (23 feet) tall, and rarely grows as tall as 15 metres (50 feet). Its bark is fissured.

Leaf Characteristics

The leaves of this tree are made up of three leaflets, each of which measures up to 15 centimetres (6 inches) long, and attach to a thorny stalk.

Flower Characteristics

Its inflorescences bear many flowers that have bright red petals.

Seed Toxicity

The seeds of Erythrina senegalensis are poisonous.

Distribution Range

This species is native to West Africa, found across the region ranging from Mauritania to Chad and Cameroon.

Habitat

It grows in habitats of wooded grassland or savanna.

Traditional Medicinal Use

Locally, Erythrina senegalensis is used in traditional medicine.

Wood and Seed Uses

Its wood is used locally to craft knife handles, and its seeds are used to make necklaces.

Cultivation Uses

The species is cultivated as an ornamental plant, and is also used to form hedges.