•Status in Florida: Native
•Size at Maturity: Coral Bean typically grows as a perennial shrub or small tree, reaching heights of about 10 to 20 feet tall.
•Phenology: Perennial shrub or small tree with showy clusters of red flowers that bloom in spring to early summer, followed by the development of red seed pods.
•Life Cycle: Perennial
•Bloom Season: Spring to early summer
•Deciduous, Dioecious, Evergreen: Deciduous
•Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
•Soil Texture: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerant of various soil types
•Soil pH: Tolerant of a wide range, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5)
•Moisture Requirements: Tolerant of drought once established; prefers moderately moist soil
•Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low tolerance
•Recommended Landscape Uses: Native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, naturalized areas, as a specimen tree or shrub
•Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance; prune as needed to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches; avoid planting near walkways due to the presence of toxic seeds
•Considerations: Coral Bean is highly attractive to hummingbirds and provides important habitat and food for various wildlife species, but all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
•Deer and/or Rabbit Resistance: Moderately resistant; typically not preferred by deer or rabbits due to toxicity
•Edible: No, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested
•Medicinal Uses: Historically used by Native American tribes for various medicinal purposes, although caution should be exercised due to its toxicity
•Toxicity to Pets: Highly toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, if ingested; ingestion of plant material can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, cardiac issues, and potentially death
•Florida Native Companion Plant: Coral Bean is often found growing alongside other native plants in various habitats, including species such as Firebush (Hamelia patens) and Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana).
•Wildlife Benefit: Attracts hummingbirds; provides habitat and food for insects and other wildlife, but caution should be exercised due to its toxicity.
