Mundulea sericea is an attractive small tree or shrub well known for its for its interesting corky bark. This small tree normally reaches a mature height of 3m and is usually single-stemmed with a bushy branched crown. This tree is common in Gauteng, North-Wets, mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.
The greyish-green leaves of the Cork bush are alternate, with uneven number of leaflets. It produces mauve and lilac flowers which appear simultaneously with new leaves in Spring and early summer [October to February]. After flowering, fruits appear in form of long pods with thickened yellow-brown rims that become brown-grey. As they mature, these pods are velvety hairy and may persist on the branches throughout winter. These fruits mature from November to April.
Because of its small mature size, this tree is ideal for small gardens. It also grows well as a pot plant and is lovely as a bonsai. The root system of Mundulea sericea is non-invasive, one can consider 2m as the safest distance for planting this tree from built areas. Mundulea sericea suitable for planting close to the pool. It needs a sunny spot to flower. It is important that the soil is well-drained. If water-logged, it will die.
Bark is used as a fish poison.
You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest.
