Erythrina humeana pods

The fruit pods of Erythrina humeana become dark, even black or purplish as they dry out. The curvature of the pods and their attenuating tips can be observed in the photo. The pods become up to 16 cm long. They are dehiscent, bursting open to release seed from midsummer to autumn.

The bark of this tree is burnt to obtain ashes used in traditional medicine. Sprains are treated by using an extract from the roots. The plant also yields medicines related to chest complaints. 

Overuse of less common trees in ethnic medicine may add to plant survival risk. Planting such species as a countermeasure may provide a partial solution (Schmidt, et al, 2002; Coates Palgrave, 2002; Van Wyk and Van Wyk, 1997).