As stated previously, we will provide information about the indigenous
trees that occur in our village. The purpose is not only to inform, but also to
encourage residents to dedicate themselves to their conservation.
PHILIP VAN DEN BERG (U34) writes: For various reasons the Common Coral Tree (Erythrina
lysistemon) is one of the best-known trees in southern Africa. It is
widespread in bushveld areas where it is conspicuous when in flower. Coral
trees are also used as decorative trees in gardens, parks and along streets
because of their beauty and the relative ease with which they may be propagated
from cuttings and seeds.
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The Common Coral Tree (Erythrina lysistemon) |
The Common Coral Tree is
a small to medium deciduous tree, but sometimes it can grow very big under
favourable conditions. One such tree is the magnificent specimen at U8 in our
village. It sheds its leaves in early winter and then the brilliant red, long-lasting
flowers appear in large numbers, resulting in spectacular splashes of colour in
an otherwise drab winter landscape.
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The brilliant red flowers provide spectacular splashes of colour in an otherwise drab winter landscape |
Many species of birds
and insects are attracted to the flowers, not only for nectar, but also to feed
on the insects attracted by the flowers. Common avian visitors include
sunbirds, white-eyes, weavers and hoopoes. Opportunistic insectivorous birds
such as bee-eaters, drongos, fly catchers and shrikes make a feast of the
insects attracted by the flowers. Because of its soft wood, barbets and
woodpeckers often excavate their nesting holes in dry stems and thick branches.
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Common avain visitors include sunbirds |
For the smaller garden,
the Dwarf Coral Tree (Erythrina humeana) is an ideal alternative to the
larger Common Coral Tree. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that flowers
throughout the summer.
(Note: Philip was formerly the head of the Environmental Education
section of the erstwhile Natal Education Department. After taking early retirement in 1995, he
assumed a second career as a professional wildlife photographer. Over the years
Philip has received various national and international photographic awards and
his images have featured prominently in numerous coffee-table books, calendars, magazine portfolios and other
photographic publications worldwide.)