The genus Erythrina (Fam: Leguminosae) is represented by over 100 species, distributed throughout North and South America, Australia, Africa and Asia and is among some of the easiest plants to grow. They are commonly known as coral trees on account of their brilliant blossoms ranging from an intense red to mixtures of red and yellow. Although the primary use of this genus has been for ornamental purposes, a few species have excelled as utility species.In Sri Lanka the genus is represented by one species in the native flora Erythrina indica. This species is found from sea level to about 200 m and is sparsely scattered through the island both as a household and a feral tree.