Baphia racemosa
Water Needs
moderate; high
![Baphia racemosa](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5a78c0_31a34a9f9f594ac3ae91f3ee6df4aef3~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_483,h_470,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/5a78c0_31a34a9f9f594ac3ae91f3ee6df4aef3~mv2.jpg)
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
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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.
![Baphia racemosa](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5a78c0_56f4a9bb4a4546d88440a2692d1a5040~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_483,h_536,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/5a78c0_56f4a9bb4a4546d88440a2692d1a5040~mv2.jpg)