swartapiesdoring
umkhaya wehlalahlathi, umbabampala
Deciduous tree (12 – 25 m) with spreading crown, paired hooked thorns, and bipinnate leaves. Creamy-white flower spikes (Oct – Jan). Bright red pods (Feb – Apr).Ecological role: Keystone species in savanna; critical for large herbivores and pollinators.
Insects: HostsCharaxes jasiusbutterfly larvae.Large mammals: Leaves browsed by giraffe, kudu, black rhino.Soil: Nitrogen-fixing (Rhizobia).Ecosystem Services: Erosion control, shade for seedlings.
Flowers: Pollinated by bees.Fruits: Pods eaten by elephants, impala.Seed dispersal: Ungulates, rodents.
Nesting: Crowned eagles nest in tall specimens.Insectivores: Attract beetles for woodpeckers.
Collection: Collect pods when red.Storage: Store dry.Germination: Pour boiling water over seeds, soak 24h; 80% success.
Not recommended (low success).
Medicinal: Bark treats diarrhea.Fodder: Pods fed to cattle.Toxicity: Non-toxic.Cultural: Protective charm in Venda culture.
