Celtis Africana 19cm
Common Names: White Stinkwood,  witstinkhou

Full Sun
Medium Watering
Indigenous

Fast-growing shade tree that grows up to 10m in height with a wide crown and characteristic smooth, grey trunk.
They have an invasive root system and are not suitable for small gardens.

Celtis Africana is commonly known as White Stinkwood and is a species of deciduous tree belonging to the Cannabaceae family. It is native to various regions in Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland.

Appearance: The White Stinkwood is a medium to large-sized tree that can grow up to 20-25 meters in height. It has a spreading canopy with a rounded or irregular shape. The bark is smooth and greyish-white when young, but it becomes rough and darkens with age.

Leaves: The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a serrated margin. They are elliptical in shape and can be 4-10 cm long. The leaves are typically bright green, turning yellow to golden in autumn before falling off in winter.

Flowers: The tree produces inconspicuous, small, greenish flowers in late spring or early summer. These flowers are not showy but are important as a nectar source for insects.

Fruits: After flowering, Celtis africana develops small, fleshy, and roundish fruits that turn from green to orange or purplish when ripe. The fruits are edible and are consumed by various birds and mammals, contributing to seed dispersal.

Habitat: The White Stinkwood is commonly found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It is a hardy and adaptable species that can tolerate a range of conditions.

Uses: In some regions, the wood of Celtis africana has been used for various purposes, including furniture, carvings, and construction. However, it is not as extensively used as some other tree species due to its relative softness. The tree is also valued for its role in providing shade, food for wildlife, and ornamental qualities.

It’s worth noting that the common name “White Stinkwood” comes from the strong, unpleasant smell emitted by the wood when freshly cut. This odour tends to dissipate as the wood dries, and it does not pose any health risks.