Indigenous tree of the month (2)

As indicated previously, during the next few months we will provide information about the indigenous trees that occur in our village. The purpose is not only to inform, but also to encourage residents to dedicate themselves to their conservation.

This month we feature the Wild Plum (Harpephylum caffrum)

PHILIP VAN DEN BERG (U34) writes: The Wild Plum is a typical forest tree and often grows along forest edges. The trees are medium to large and beautifully shaped. As Bela-Bela is situated in the savanna biome, the specimens in our village have probably all been planted here.

Wild Plum (Harpephylum caffrum)

The stem is usually tall and straight with a compact crown. See picture above left. The shiny dark green leaves are arranged spirally on the ends of branches and are compound. The odd dead red leaves are a distinctive feature. Its rather inconspicuous whitish green flowers appear in mid-summer and are borne near the ends of the branches, with male and female flowers on separate trees.

The Wild Plum trees produce oval-shaped red fruit in large quantities from March to August. Quite a number of these trees in our village are therefore bearing fruit at the moment, enabling birds such as African Green Pigeons and Grey Hornbills to feed to their hearts’ content.

Wild Plum trees produce oval-shaped red fruit

African Green Pigeon

Grey Hornbill

The fruit is fit for human consumption. The pulp makes a good jelly preserve while the bark is often used for medicinal purposes.

Note: Philip also took the pictures. He is highly regarded as a wild-life photographer