Combretum afrum

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Combretum afrum (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze

Family: Combretaceae

Common names: Cape bushwillow (Eng.); Kaapse vaderlandswilg (Afr.); umdubu (isiXhosa)

SA Tree No: 533

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Introduction

Small to medium-sized tree, 5–10 m tall, with shiny green, drooping, willow-like foliage, greenish yellow flowers in spherical heads in spring, and 4-winged reddish brown fruits in late summer.

Combretum afrum tree in fruit, Kirstenbosch NBG

Conservation Status

Status

Least Concern (LC), Combretum afrum is not threatened.

Distribution and habitat

Distribution description

Combretum afrum occurs in the Eastern Cape, between Gqeberha and Kokstad, growing along rivers and on streambanks, in moist areas.

Uses

Use

Combretum afrum timber is used for building poles and rough farm use, and as fire wood.

References

  • Boon, R. 2010. Pooley's trees of eastern South Africa, a complete guide. Flora & Fauna Publications Trust, Durban.
  • Coates Palgrave, K. 1983. Trees of southern Africa. Struik, Cape Town.
  • Raimondo, D., Von Staden, L., Foden, W., Victor, J.E., Helme, N.A., Turner, R.C., Kamundi, D.A. & Manyama, P.A. (eds) 2009. Red list of South African plants. Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.

Plant Attributes:

Plant Type: Tree

SA Distribution: Eastern Cape

Soil type: Sandy, Loam

Flowering season: Spring

PH: Acid, Neutral

Flower colour: Green, Cream, Yellow

Aspect: Full Sun

Gardening skill: Average

Special Features:

Useful plant

Horticultural zones

Zone 1 Coastal summer rainfall, frost free

Zone 2 Coastal winter rainfall, frost free