common coral tree

9.0

A small thorny South American tree with bright red flowers

noun

: ceibo

The common coral tree is admired for its brilliant scarlet blooms in botanical gardens.

Examples

In spring, the common coral tree becomes a striking focal point with its showy flowers.
The common coral tree blooms beautifully in spring.
Farmers often plant the common coral tree as a windbreak around their fields.
Look at the stunning common coral tree in full bloom!
The common coral tree bursts into vibrant crimson flowers during the spring months.
Gardeners appreciate the common coral tree for its striking red blossoms that attract many pollinators.
In arboretums, the common coral tree is often highlighted for its unique spiny branches and brilliant blooms.

Synonyms

cry-baby tree

vscommon coral tree

9.9

A small spiny tree from South America with deep red flowers

is the identical botanical description but a different common name

ceibo

vscommon coral tree

9.9

A small spiny tree from South America with dark red flowers that grow alone or in small groups

is the same description but listed under another regional name

Erythrina crista-galli

vscommon coral tree

Specialized

9.9

A small tree from South America with spiny branches and bright red flowers grown for decoration

focuses on natural flower arrangement rather than cultivation

coral tree

vscommon coral tree

Specialized

6.8

A small tree or bush with three-part leaves and bright red flowers grown for decoration

is the specific South American species with dark crimson flowers borne solitary or clustered

Surface Forms

common coral tree singular

common coral trees plural

Morphology

common + coral + tree

The phrase is a transparent noun phrase: 'coral' describes a coral (pink/red) color or appearance and 'tree' names the plant, so a learner who knows both words can infer it refers to a tree with coral-coloured flowers; 'common' simply indicates it is widespread or ordinary. This is a compositional, non-idiomatic structure found across languages, so a B1 learner would likely derive the meaning from the parts.

Etymology

Common coral tree may get its name from its bright red flowers that look like sea coral, and the word common means it is found in many places. So the name tells you it is a small tree known for its coral-like red flowers.