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Erythrina humeana Dwarf kafferboom Deciduous shrub (1 Page of 5) The Erythrina humeana plant species is found in S. Africa. It is a member of the Leguminosae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Dwarf kafferboom. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Erythrina humeana Common Name: Dwarf kafferboom Family: Leguminosae Author: Spreng. Known Hazards: The plant contains alkaloids that have powerful narcotic and purgative effects[200]. Mature Height: 4 Mature Width: Habitat: Not known
Cultivation Notes: Requires a moderately fertile well-drained soil in a very sunny position[200]. Best if given the protection of an east, south or southwest facing wall[200].
Plants are not very hardy outdoors in Britain though they experience at least moderate frosts in their native range and would be worthwhile trying outdoors in the very mildest areas of this country[200]. The stem bases should be thickly mulched with organic matter such as leaf litter or sawdust and covered with bracken[200]. The top growth will be killed by the frost but new growth from the rootstock will flower in late summer[200].
Plants take 3 - 4 years to flower from seed[200].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[200].
For further Erythrina humeana gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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