Erythrina afra pavement tree

Commonly seen in many South African towns and cities, Erythrina afra is an admired street and park tree, the target of many photographs.

The coast coral tree is frost tender. As height is achieved, bark thickens, increasing resilience. Vehicle traffic moves and heats the cold air near the ground in the streets, making it easier for the trees to cope with the temperature. Trees may become more resilient against low temperatures with some help, although not really outgrowing susceptibility. A cold snap may leave its mark but gradual gains allow many mature trees to overcome such stresses (Coates Palgrave, 2002; Van Wyk and Van Wyk, 1997; Pooley, 1993; iNaturalist).