Baphia racemosa
Water Needs
moderate; high
Shrub large; Tree small; Tree medium
Camwood; Peawood
6 – 10 m
Size
Light Conditions
sun; semi-shade
Frost
sensitive; light; place under mature trees
Flowers
white; August – January; spring; summer
Garden Situation
sun; semi-shade; sandy soils; street tree; shade tree; small area tree; container; wildlife bees butterflies insects birds butterfly host
Habitat
coastal Eastern Cape; coastal KZN; woodland forest
Region
thicket; subtropical East Coast
Rain Season
summer; winter
Find informative indigenous gardening articles in our web magazine - www.theindigenousgardener.co.za
Description
This small, fragrant tree or large evergreen shrub is a perfect focal ornamental tree close to the patio. The roots are non-invasive with a neat form, rounded crown and beautiful white flowers that hang in masses on all branches from August to January – creating a perfect festive arrangement. A small spot of bright yellow to guide bees. At night they give off a strong violet-like fragrance. Straight stem, either single or multi-stemmed, with smooth grey to brown bark. Leaves: smooth, dark green with a slight gloss, and a wavy margin. A slow grower it is a good choice for small gardens and will do well in a pot. Host plant to blue-spotted Charaxes and brown and orange-barred Playboy butterflies.