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our trees

Russet bushwillow, Mokabi -Combretum hereroense
A small to medium-sized tree, reaching 6m or more in height and may be multi-stemmed. It
is semi-deciduous, frost hardy and drought resistant, common in the bushveld and close to
streams and rivers. It also occurs in shrublands and on termite mounds. The rough bark is
light grey to reddish brown, longitudinally furrowed and flakes in narrow strips, with branches
often arching. Combretum hereroense is interesting year round; in Summer the new leaves are
luxuriantly hairy and soft, in Autumn to Winter the leaves and seed pods turn coppery, and the
scented cream to yellow flowers attract hundreds of insects in Spring. Browsers such as kudu,
impala, elephant, steenbok, and giraffe eat the leaves of this bushwillow.

The stems also produce a gum, which many consider edible and medicinal. All parts of the
plant have significant value to people. Dried leaves and fruits are used to make tea, leaves can
also be used as fodder for cattle. The wood is strong and hard and is termite and borer proof.
Wood is harvested for fuel, as it produces a high quality fire and the coals last longer. The
roots and bark are used to various medical conditions.

It is a slow-growing tree, but will grow much faster if watered in Summer, and is suitable for
small gardens. It is especially good in gardens where termites are a problem. It is also loved
by a variety of birds including Bulbuls and Barbets. Text & Photos: by S C

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