Rapanea melanophloeos

Rapanea melanophloeos
Rapanea melanophloeos

Common names: Cape beech (English). 
Botanical name: Rapanea melanophloeos

The Cape beech, Rapanea melanophloeos, is a graceful evergreen tree that can grow up to 18 m high. It has leathery, dark green leaves and small, creamy yellow flowers that attract bees and flies. The purple fruits are a food source for birds, monkeys, and other animals. The Cape beech has a wide distribution in southern Africa, from the Western Cape to Zambia, and can tolerate coastal and windy conditions. It is also a useful plant for humans, as its wood is valued for furniture and violins, and its bark has medicinal properties for various ailments. The Cape beech is a hardy and attractive tree for large gardens and screening purposes.

Uses & Benefits: hedge, medicine


Nature & Cultivation

Family: Primulaceae
Type: tree
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Flower colour: cream, yellow
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Plant-animal interactions: bees, butterflies
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Use as Medicine

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