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What is the difference between coral tree (Erythrina corallodendron) and Indian coral tree (Erythrina variegata)? Comparison of flower and leaf characteristics

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Tree form difference: Coral tree is a shrub or small tree, while Indian coral tree is a tree, so coral tree's plant height is lower than that of Indian coral tree. Leaf difference: Coral tree's leaflets are rhombic-ovate, while Indian coral tree's leaflets are broadly ovate or rhombic-ovate, and are larger than coral tree's leaflets. Flower difference: Coral tree's inflorescence is longer than Indian coral tree's inflorescence.

I. Tree form difference

Coral tree is a shrub or small tree, generally 3-5m in height. While Indian coral tree is a tall tree, reaching up to 20m in height. So, comparing the two, the shorter one is coral tree.

II. Leaf difference

Both have pinnately compound leaves, but coral tree's leaflets are rhombic-ovate, 4-10cm long and 2.5-7cm wide, while Indian coral tree's leaflets are broadly ovate or rhombic-ovate, both 15-30cm long and wide. So coral tree's leaflets are smaller than Indian coral tree's leaflets. In addition, Indian coral tree's petioles usually have no spines, while coral tree's petioles sometimes produce small spines.

III. Flower difference

Coral tree's flowers are dark red, with short pedicels, and the inflorescence length can reach over 30cm, while Indian coral tree's flowers are red, with an inflorescence length of 10-16cm. So, comparing the two, the one with the longer inflorescence is coral tree.

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