Shakama Plum (Hexalobus monopetalus)

Family Annonaceae

Usually grows only 2-3m in height but can reach 7m. The fruit and bark are very hairy.

Fruit is very small and red when ripe.

Extract from Palgraves: “The roots are said to smell of peppermint and the pliant young branches may be used to make baskets, but to many Africans the chief value of the tree lies in its magical properties. Zulus use it as a charm against nightmares, the roots are dried and smoked to prevent hysteria; the Tembu people place the wood at the gates of their kraals so that ailing cattle may jump over them and so be cured, while young hunters burn the wood and throw the ash around the carcass of their first kill so that more animals will be drawn their way.”