Common Cabbage Tree
Cussonia spicata
Flora
| At a Glance | |
| Family | Araliaceae, closely related to parsley, fennel and carrot family, Apiaceae |
| Seasonality | Evergreen |
| Height | 15m |
| SA Tree Number | 564 |
| Conservation Status | Not threathened |
Description
An accent tree with a dense, rounded crown of up to 15 heads of leaves which are characteristically arranged in spirals at the end of thick branches. Single-stemmed up to 2 - 4m
Distribution
Naturally occurs in the wetter regions of South Africa and extends into the eastern-neighbouring countries.
Flower - Fruit
April - June: Flowers appear in a candelabra-form of around 10 greenish-yellow spikes.
Oct - Dec : Fruits present as small purpley-red berries , tightly packed onto the spikes. The ripe fruit attracts birds and Charaxes (Emperor) butterflies.
Uses
The large tuber can be dug up and chewed in times of drought. The leaves are traditionally chewed for indigestion and the mashed tuber has been known to treat malaria.
The timber is very soft and was used as brake-blocks on the ox-wagons. It plays host to Charaxes butterfly caterpillars which are considered a delicacy by certain humans.
Local Information
In Krantzkloof, Cussonia are found on the grassy slopes of the gorge where they are exposed to a lot of sun.
Interesting Facts
It has an invasive root system and should not be planted near paving, swimming pools or buildings.