For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Wild Peach (Kiggelaris africana)

Family Flacourticeae
They are small to medium trees with greenish-white flowers but it was too late in the season to get pictures of them.

The fruit is eaten by birds but not palatable for humans.

The Tembu people believe that this tree should not be touched as it attracts lightening but the Sotho use parts of it for a potion to protect their homes.
 The wood is pink and hard and suitable for making rafters, agricultural implements and furniture.


It provides a pinkish dye and hydrochloric acid.