Stinkwitgat, Stinkbos, Knoudoring, Noenieboom, Oumeidsbos
uMvithi
Evergreen, bushy shrub or small tree (up to 7 m), with dense, rounded crown.
Leaves simple, leathery, grey-green, with unpleasant smell when crushed.
Small, yellow-green flowers in clusters in spring to summer, followed by round, greenish-yellow berries.
Adapted to arid and semi-arid environments.
Valuable fodder and shade tree.
Insects: Flowers attract bees and beneficial flies.
Wildlife: Leaves browsed by game and livestock, especially during droughts.
Berries eaten by birds and mammals.
Ecosystem Services: Provides shade and fodder in arid areas. Supports pollinators and frugivores.
Small, yellow-green, scented flowers attract insects.
Berries are eaten by birds and mammals.
Seeds are eaten and then dispersed by animals.
Berries are a food source; dense crown provides shelter.
Collect ripe berries, extract and clean the seeds, then sow in well-drained sandy soil.
Germination is slow and may take several weeks to months.
Low success rates. Seed propagation is preferred.
Traditional Uses: Leaves, roots, and berries used for food, and as a medicine to treat stomach pains and fever.
Livestock farming: Leaves and pods are an important fodder for livestock during droughts. Berries are edible.
