National symbols visually represent a country’s collective identity, history, and cultural heritage. A national flower highlights the natural beauty and ecological distinctiveness of a region. It serves as a recognizable image that connects citizens to their environment and native flora.
Identifying the National Flower
Argentina’s official floral emblem is the Ceibo, also known as Seibo. This designation refers to the flower of the tree scientifically named Erythrina crista-galli. The Ceibo flower is the national flower of both Argentina and its neighbor, Uruguay. It was formally confirmed as Argentina’s national flower by Presidential Decree No. 13.847 in 1942.
The decree solidified the flower’s status, confirming its cultural importance and widespread presence across the Argentine landscape. The flower is celebrated annually on November 22nd, which is recognized as National Flower Day in Argentina.
Biological Profile and Characteristics
The Ceibo plant, or Cockspur Coral Tree, is a small, deciduous tree or shrub belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It typically reaches a height of 16 to 33 feet, often developing a gnarled and rugged trunk with thick, rough, greyish-brown bark.
Its most distinctive feature is the brilliant, velvety, scarlet-to-deep-red flowers that bloom in large, drooping clusters called racemes. The specific epithet crista-galli is Latin for “cock’s comb,” referencing the flower’s shape. The flowers are pea-like, with two lower petals partially fusing to form a keel that encloses the reproductive organs.
The tree is native to central South America, thriving particularly in the basin regions of the Paraná and Río de la Plata. It is commonly found in low-lying, flood-prone areas, such as swamps and wetlands, as it tolerates saturated soils well. In its native habitat, the tree generally blooms from October through April, spanning the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer.
Cultural Importance and Official Designation
The official designation of the Ceibo flower was enacted by Presidential Decree No. 13.847 on December 22, 1942. This governmental action acknowledged the flower’s deep roots in Argentine identity, influenced by its native status, widespread distribution, and strong connection to local folklore.
One of the most famous cultural narratives surrounding the Ceibo is the Guaraní legend of Anahí, an indigenous maiden. The story tells of Anahí, who was captured by Spanish conquistadores and sentenced to be burned alive for resisting colonization. As the flames consumed her, she was transformed into the Ceibo tree, with its fiery red blossoms symbolizing her courage and sacrifice.
This legend cemented the flower’s symbolism, representing bravery, resilience, and the spirit of indigenous resistance. The scarlet color is often associated with the blood shed in defense of the homeland. Today, the Ceibo remains a powerful national emblem, frequently featured in Argentine art, poetry, and traditional stories.