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Searsia pyroides

by Johan Wentzel

Searsia pyroides
Common Name
Fire thorn
Plant Type
Tree
Searsia pyroides is a very hardy, tough tree that is widespread in South Africa. It has attractive trifoliate leaves and sometimes large, woody spines.This very easy and attractive addition to the garden attracts a multitude of birds and insects.
Plant Description

The common wild currant, Searsia pyroides, is a small to medium sized evergreen tree and is regarded as one of the most widely distributed indigenous trees in South Africa. It grows well in both high altitude and low altitude areas. The  height depends on the climatic conditions but is normally 5-7m.

This low branching, multi-stemmed shrub or tree has a dense rounded canopy. Its velvety, light grey-green leaves are compound and composed of three leaflets. Woody spines are found along the stems. The bark is rough and dark grey. Searsia pyroides bears tiny white flowers from August to March. The flowers on the female plants is a  droopy cluster. Male and female flowers are found on separate plants. Fruits of Searsia pyroides are drupes,  almost like a bunch of grapes, with a thin pulp layer.

Searsia pyroides is a valuable addition to the garden as it attracts multitudes of birds and insects. When grown as a shrub, it responds well to pruning thus enhancing the beauty of the garden. Due to the prominent spines, Searsia pyroides can be planted as a security hedge.I t is also suitable for bonsai.

You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest.

Afrikaanse Naam
Taaibos
Hardiness
Hardy
Position
Sun
Water Requirements
Water wise
Evergreen
Evergreen
Growth Rate
Fast
Flowering Time
Early summer
Flower Colour
Yellow
Shape
Spreading
Soil
Loam
Plant Size
5m
Region
Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West
Habitat
Grassland, Savannah, Riverine
Grown by Wildflower Nursery
Yes
  • Searsia pyroides

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Random Harvest Nursery: 082 553 0598

Jonathan Taylor: 0768305242

Email: [email protected]

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