The genus Erythrina is of special interest in the development of agroforestry systems because of its adaptability to several uses (e.g., live posts for fences, shade trees for perennial crops such as coffee and cacao, forage for livestock, and others). Rapid plant growth, high biomass production, easy propagation from cuttings, ability to withstand regular pruning plus subsequent rapid sprouting and development of strong shoots, are characteristics that make Elythrina an attractive genus to be used in agroforestry. The abundant nodulation in the rootlets and its potential as a nitrogen fixer, open interesting possibilities for establishing plantations on low fertility soils and/or restoring these soils. Some of the most common uses of Erythrina species are discussed in this review related to specific agroforestry applications.