A Common Coral Tree (Erythrina lysistemon), found in South Africa.

Distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, this example of the Common Coral Tree (Erythrina lysistemon) was found in South Africa. It is very decorative, but it is also an important component of the ecosystem, providing food and shelter for a variety of birds, animals and insects. It is thought to have both medicinal and magical properties by many people and the flowering of the trees has been, and still is, a good signal to the people that it is time to plant their crops.