Witgat
A large, evergreen tree with a dense rounded crown and smooth grey bark.
Leaves are simple, leathery, and glossy dark green.
Flowers are small, greenish-yellow, appearing in spring.
Fruits are small, round, yellowish drupes.
Valued for shade and as a keystone species in arid savannas, it is visually prominent and ecologically critical for many species.
Supports many butterflies, including the well-known migratory Brown-Veined-White that disperses in large numbers.
The flowers are an important source of nectar for many nectar feeding insects during dry periods.
Provides food and shelter for reptiles (e.g., skinks), small mammals, and large herbivores like kudu and elephants, which browse leaves and fruits.
Acts as a nurse plant for seedlings of other species.
Fixes soil nutrients indirectly by improving microhabitats.
Flowers are small, nectar-rich, attracting bees, butterflies, wasps, and beneficial flies.
Fruits eaten by birds and mammals aid seed dispersal.
Seeds are dispersed mainly by mammals and birds.
Provides fruits for frugivorous birds such as turacos and hornbills.
Dense canopy offers nesting and perching sites for various bird species, including weavers and doves.
Supports insect populations for insectivorous birds.
Seeds mature in late summer. Collect ripe fruits, remove pulp, sow fresh seeds in well-drained soil.
Germination rates are moderate. Scarification improves success.
Difficult; generally propagated by seed.
Used traditionally for shade, fodder.
Medicinal Uses: Roots and leaves are used for treating stomach ailments.
Cultural: An Important cultural tree in many communities. Large old trees often provide shade, where community meetings are held.
No significant livestock toxicity reported.
