Erythrina variegata (syn. E. indica Lam., E. variegata var. orientalis (L.) Merr.; tiger's claw, Indian coral tree and sunshine tree; Tamil: Murukku, ????????;Pali: p?ricchattaka; Sanskrit: p?rij?ta, ???????) is a species of Erythrina native to the tropical and subtropical regions of eastern Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, northern Australia, and the islands of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean east to Fiji.
Video Erythrina variegata
Description
E. variegata is a thorny deciduous tree growing to 27 m (89 ft) tall. The leaves are pinnate with a 20 cm (7.9 in) petiole and three leaflets, each leaflet up to 20 cm (7.9 in) long and broad. It has dense clusters of scarlet or crimson flowers and black seeds.
Maps Erythrina variegata
Uses
Erythrina variegata is valued as an ornamental tree. Several cultivars have been selected, including 'Alba' with white flowers.
In Vietnam, the leaves are used to wrap fermented meat (Vietnamese: nem).
E. variegata is known as dapdap in the Philippines where its bark and leaves are used in alternative medicine. In Siddha medicine, it is used especially for menstrual disorders and fissures at penis tip (Tamil: ?????????????).
E. variegata is often used in agroforestry systems. It can be used for fodder as its foliage has a good nutritive value for most livestock.
Cultural impact
E. variegata was designated the official flower of Okinawa Prefecture in 1967. The deigo flower features in the popular song "Shima Uta" by The Boom, one of the most well-known songs associated with Okinawa. In addition, the use of the wood of the deigo tree is one of the unique characteristics of Ryukyuan lacquerware.
References
External links
- Media related to Erythrina variegata at Wikimedia Commons
- Elevitch, Craig R.; W. Arthur Whistler (April 2006). "Erythrina variegata (coral tree)" (PDF). The Traditional Tree Initiative.
- Flowers of India - Indian Coral Tree
Source of article : Wikipedia
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