SafePlants

Adenanthera pavonina: The Red Lucky Seed

Adenanthera pavonina, a captivating tree known for its vibrant red seeds, goes by many common names, reflecting its widespread presence and varied uses. This page delves into the details of this fascinating species.

Common Names

• Red Lucky Seed
• Red Sandalwood
• Coral-wood
• Peacock Flower Fence
• Red Bead Tree
• Acacia Coral
• Arbre glise
• Bead Tree
• Circassian Seed
• Saga Seed Tree
• Coral Bean Tree
• False Wiliwili
• Saga
• Redwood
• Red Beantree
• Circassan Tree
• Zumbic Tree
• False Red Sandal Beadtree
• False Red Sandalwood

It's also known as Madhoshi in Dhivehi and has names in Hindi: ???? ???? (Rakt chandan), ??? ????? (Badi kumri).

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces red, glossy seeds.

Considerations for Children

• The attractive seeds have been used as beads in jewelry, leis, and rosaries.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Adenanthera pavonina
• Family: Mimosoideae (subfamily)
• Synonym: Corallaria parvifolia

Distribution and Habitat

Adenanthera pavonina has been naturalized in Jamaica and planted in Suriname as an ornamental. It is common in the closed forests of certain regions. It's also found in Mountferat, where it grows naturally.

Ecological Role

This fast-growing tree is listed in the Global Compendium of Weeds as a natural and agricultural weed, indicating its potential to become invasive in certain environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• Adenanthera pavonina is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree, typically reaching heights of 6-15 meters and a diameter of up to 45 cm.
• The bark is generally dark brown to greyish and erect.
• The crown is open and spreading.
• The tree is known for its beautiful red, glossy seeds.
• Green pods turn brown before twisting & exposing the shiny seeds

Quirky Facts

• In the Caribbean, the bright red seeds of Adenanthera pavonina are known as "jumbie" beads and also called "Circassian" seeds.
• The seeds have been used as beads in jewelry, leis, and rosaries