Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao
Erythrina poeppigiana
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Pl. F822 — Erythrina poeppigiana
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IOverview
Overview
Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao, scientifically known as Erythrina poeppigiana, is a tree native to mountainous regions in Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, Ecuador, Panamá, Peru, and Venezuela. This species thrives in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It grows up to 25 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers, which are often picked fresh and eaten as a snack or incorporated into salads for their delicate flavor. The tree's hardiness ranges from USDA zones 10-12, making it suitable for temperate regions. Native to the mountainous areas of South America, this plant has been introduced to several other countries including Angola, Costa Rica, Cuba, and India, among others. Its adaptability and ornamental appeal make it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes. The flowers are particularly distinctive, providing both aesthetic value and culinary use. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, the edible parts of this tree offer a unique flavor profile that can enhance various dishes.
Quick answers
What is Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao?
Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao, scientifically known as Erythrina poeppigiana, is a tree native to mountainous regions in Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, Ecuador, Panamá, Peru, and Venezuela.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This tree is hardy in temperate regions with a USDA zone of 10-12. For cultivation, it requires little water once established and should be planted in a location that allows for its maximum height of up to 25 meters. Propagation can occur through seeds or cuttings. The edible parts include the flowers, making this plant useful both as an ornamental and a food source.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; mix sand for better drainage if needed. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully, avoiding root damage.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering; keep soil moist but not soggy. Place in a partially shaded area to acclimate.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Flowers can be harvested for decorative purposes but are not commonly used.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil without drainage, neglecting sun exposure, and pruning at the wrong time of year.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of the Mountain Immortelle Madre de Cacao (Erythrina poeppigiana) are edible and can be consumed raw or used in various preparations. They are often picked fresh and eaten as a snack or incorporated into salads for their delicate flavor.
Other uses:Animal feed
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 23 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 23 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 8 native· 23 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)India
Americas14 regions
native (5)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorPeruVenezuela
introduced (9)Costa RicaCubaDominican RepublicEl SalvadorGuatemalaHaitiHondurasJamaicaPuerto Rico
Africa6 regions
introduced (6)AngolaKenyaNigeriaSierra LeoneTanzaniaUganda
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northwest, Brazil North, Panamá
introduced:Gulf of Guinea Is., Jawa, Leeward Is., Malaya, Trinidad-Tobago, Windward Is., Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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