coral bean

back in july when the falls were first running after several torrential rains....

...i noticed all over the rocky cliffs a bright, bluish-green leafy bush. it was the first plant that quickly showed it's appreciation for the moisture, with everything else closely following suit.

not knowing what it was, i took a picture with the intention of finding out. i knew it had to be something special...i could feel it.

my inquisition served me well, and it's only been recently that i've had the opportunity to sit and visit with it. there is a healthy stand located on the southeastern side of the Mule mnts.
now that the lush greeny season is over, it's about the only thing in the desert that turns yellow, gold, brown, then sheds.

it is called coral bean, or erythrina herbacea. the shrub gets it's name from the bright red beans that burst out of the pods. due to the extreme and extended cold season last winter, in combination with the extreme and dry season this summer, many desert plants just barely came into bloom. most, not even giving to fruit. the coral bean pods we found had light tan colored beans still attached, possibly last year's seeds that have faded in the weather, OR this year's seeds that are malnurished.

scattered on the ground i was able to collect a handful of red beans. again, due to the weather conditions and the endangerment it has on plants, over collecting would be unethical and possibly detrimental to wild species. so be a steward to the plant kingdom and only collect where plentiful and ethical. furthermore, if you do attunements with plants, the best way to know is to just ask. introduce yourself to the plant as you would a human being. sit. listen. and they will speak to you.

t

unfortunately, i did not get to see coral bean in bloom personally. but you can see pictures at Southeastern Arizona Wildflowers.

medicinal uses among various native american peoples; "Creek women used an infusion of the root for bowel pain; the Choctaw used a decoction of the leaves as a general tonic; the Seminole used an extract of the roots for digestive problems". also consisting of toxic alkaloids, the beans are used as rat poison in mexico.(wikipedia)
in chinese medicine, coral bean bark is called hai tong pi is and is used to scatter wind-dampness by unblocking particular wind related channels; stimulates urination, reduces edema, treats itchy skin ailments.

from my field notes:
" i giggled, and peaked out of the corner of one eye at the coral bean plant, like an aunt does from across the dinner table to her nieces during the blessing."
~ feelings of lightness...lightens up a serious mood...don't take things so seriously...playful...light spirit lifts a heavy soul...rain drops falling on broad leaves sounds like a cluster of umbrellas catching droplets...blue-green leaves turn to golden yellow - simulates the contrast between serious and playful...mood elevator...essence for a heavy and sad heart...tender innocence like a child...a no nonsense focus ~ 

afternoon silhouette