Ptaeroxylon obliquum is a hardy, evergreen tree that has glossy dark green leaves that turn a glowing yellow in autumn and are very decorative. It has abundant, sweetly scented, hanging bunches of flowers.
Leaves are opposite, evenly compound with dark green asymmetric leaflets. The bark is dark grey with deep longitudinal and interlinked furrows on older branches. Male and female flowers are found on separate trees. These yellow sweet-smelling flowers have four petals, opening white with an orange centre from creamy yellow buds. Fruits exist as oblong capsules with the top notch turning reddish brown, these are produced from August to December.
Ptaeroxylon obliquum is a protected tree of South Africa. It can withstand a moderate frost and is drought resistant. Its non-invasive root system makes it an ideal tree for small gardens. This tree is also planted as an avenue tree in the landscapes. Sneezewood’s sweetly scented flowers attract a wide range of butterfly species hence its suitability for wildlife gardens. Wood of this tree
Ptaeroxylon obliquum is a very decorative, good shade tree and an excellent garden subject. Unfortunately it is not readily available.
You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest.