Family: Fabaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Erythrina sigmoidea is a tropical tree native to parts of Central and West Africa. It is known for its striking ornamental appeal, producing bright red to orange, tubular flowers that attract birds and other pollinators. Like other coral trees, it typically has a spiny trunk and branches, along with compound leaves that create light, dappled shade. This species is sometimes planted as an ornamental or shade tree in tropical landscapes and may also be used in agroforestry systems for soil enrichment, as species in the Erythrina genus are often valued for their nitrogen-fixing ability.

Risks & Threats:
Although Erythrina sigmoidea is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that raise concern. Its potential for rapid growth, ability to thrive in tropical climates, and reproductive capacity could allow it to spread beyond cultivation under suitable conditions. Additionally, related Erythrina species have shown invasive tendencies in some regions, suggesting a need for caution. Because of these characteristics, further evaluation is needed to determine whether this species could pose a risk to Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems if introduced or more widely planted.

High Risk Traits:

• Congeneric weed
  
• Produces spines/thorns
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds
  
• Persistent seed bank (viable for several years)
  
• Tolerates mutilation (propagates from cuttings)
  
• Self-compatible
  
• Nitrogen-fixing

Low Risk Traits:

• Palatable to grazing animals
  
• Non-toxic
  
• No vegetative spread
  
• No external dispersal adaptations
  
• Not a produce contaminant