Erythrina is a genus of flowering plants in the pea family, Fabaceae. It contains about 130 species, which are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They are shrubs or trees, growing up to 30m in height. They are popular bonsai subjects and are popular choices for bird gardeners. The generic name is derived from the Greek word erythros, meaning red, referring to the flower colour of certain species. Particularly in horticulture, the name coral tree is used as a collective term for these plants. “Flame trees” is another vernacular name, but may refer to a number of unrelated plants as well. Many species of Erythrina have bright red flowers, and this may be the origin of the common name.

Erythrina livingstoniana is a spreading tree that grows to 25 meters in height. During summer it bears very showy brilliant scarlet flower spikes which are followed by distinctive seed pods. During winter it is deciduous. It prefers full sun. The bark is furrowed and the tree is heavily armed with scattered woody bosses tipped with spines up to 2.5cm long. It is native to Mozambique though it is uncommon. Erythrina livingstoniana is usually found on rocky hillsides, banks of seasonal rivers or often in stunted mopane scrub in hot dry areas at altitudes of 95 to 630m.