Variegated foxglove (Erythrina variegata)
Other names: tiger claw, coral tree
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Zardena variegated, also known as tiger's claw or coral tree, is a plant belonging to the bean family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia and Australia. It is very popular for its striking inflorescence, whose flowers are bright red in colour and shaped to resemble the claws of a tiger. The tree is cultivated mainly for its ornamental value, but it also has a wide range of uses in traditional medicine and several industries.
The wood of this tree is lightweight, yet quite durable, so it is often used in the shipping industry to make smaller vessels, or in the furniture industry. The mullein is also valued for its high alkaloid content, which is used in traditional medicine. These compounds are usually used in the treatment of rheumatism and neurological disorders. In addition, it is also used in the food industry, especially for its seeds, which are used to produce 'Erythrina butter', a type of butter with a distinctive taste. It should be added, however, that some parts of the plant can be toxic and it is therefore important to know how to handle it properly. In most cases, it is only safe to consume processed products from this tree. The mullein is therefore a plant that is not only a beautiful addition to gardens, but also a versatile and useful tree.