Rooiels
Platylophus trifoliatus
Common names: Red alder, butterspoon tree (English) umqwashube (Xhosa)
SA Tree No: 140
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Size:
In forests it may reach up to 10m in height but where it is growing out in the open it may only reach 5m.
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Bark:
The bark is dark, rough and fissured, greyish in colour.
Leaf:
One of the most striking characteristics of the tree is the pair of stipules which enclose the growth tip. They are large and pressed together forming a spoon-like shape, hence the name "Butterspoon" Tree. The leaves are dark green and glossy with contrasting reddish leaf-stalks.
Flower:
The showy, scented flowers appear in late summer, from February to May and are carried in dense, creamy spikes which have a bottlebrush-like appearance, and attract insects.
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Fruit:
The fruits are small, brown, two-horned capsules which release very fine, sticky seed. Seed is dispersed in two ways; firstly by visiting birds which fly off with the seed clinging to their feathers, legs and bills, and then by the wind which blows the fine seed away.
Growth Habit:
One of the fastest growing of South Africa's forest trees.
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Habitat:
Seen in forests and moist areas, especially along watercourses.
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Wildlife:
The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinating insects.
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Distribution:
It is found along the coast and adjacent inland areas from the Western Cape eastwards to Mozambique.
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Uses:
The Butterspoon tree is reportedly used for treating nervous complaints. The wood has been used to make furniture, has a fine grain, and is relatively hard and heavy.
Growing it...
Germination from seed is erratic. Seedlings grow slowly in the first year but rapidly once roots are establishe
April Photo's
