Coral Bean, Cardinal Spear

Description:

Coral Bean, Erythrina herbacea, is a member of the Fabaceae, or pea family. In the spring over a long period spikes of red, elongated, narrow blooms several feet long adorn the low growing plants, whose leaflets are borne in threes. Later the showy scarlet beans in dark pods add further interest. They are often seen in pastures or waste places that are not mowed often.

Habitat:

In the wild area below the visitors center at Gulf Islands National Seashore.