PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Erythrina crista-galli
Cockspur Coral Tree
L.
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A small to medium-sized deciduous tree or woody shrub characterized by a tortuous, irregular trunk and branches armed with sharp prickles. It features trifoliate leaves and produces spectacular, large, bright scarlet-red flowers that cluster in elongated racemes, structurally resembling a cock''s comb or a curved spur.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Fabales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Fabaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Erythrina
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L.
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Unknown
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
--
Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to South America, specifically Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay, and widely cultivated elsewhere. It thrives in humid, lowland ecosystems, frequently found along gallery forests, swamps, riverbanks, and seasonally flooded marshy areas, demonstrating high tolerance to waterlogged soils.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Stays anchored within wet riparian edges. It coordinates its heavy flowering season with the warmer months, dropping its leaves in winter to conserve internal energy during cold periods.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
500.0 - 1000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Features highly spongy, porous bark and wood structures that facilitate internal gas exchange, helping the roots survive extended periods of seasonal anaerobic waterlogging.
Maintains a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing Rhizobium bacteria in its root nodules, allowing it to easily colonize nutrient-poor alluvial and marsh soils.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Wetland reclamation and drainage for urban expansion and agricultural mega-farms, which destroys the specialized hydromorphic soils it depends on.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The striking scarlet bloom of this species is officially designated as the National Flower of both Argentina and Uruguay, celebrated deeply in South American folklore and poetry.