Cape Chestnut

Calodendrum capense

An indigenous East and Southern African tree valued for its showy pink-to-white star-shaped flower clusters and glossy dark green leaves. Common in highland forest margins and increasingly planted as an ornamental and shade tree.

Family: Rutaceae
Tree type: ornamental/shade
Mature height (m): 10-20
Growth rate: slow-medium
Lifespan (years): 60-100
Native region: Eastern and Southern Africa

Environment

Growing Conditions

Climate requirements: Suited to Kenya's moist highland and forest-margin zones (roughly 1,200-2,500m) with reliable rainfall.
Soil types: Prefers well-drained, fertile forest-type soils.
Water requirements: Moderate; does best with reliable rainfall, not strongly drought-tolerant when young.

Cultivation

Planting & Care

Planting guide: Propagate from seed; space 8-10m apart; plant at the onset of rains.
Care guide: Low maintenance, minimal pruning; generally free of serious pests or diseases.

Phenology

Flowering & Fruiting

Flowering season: October-December
Fruiting season: Knobbly capsule fruits follow flowering

Value

Uses & Economic Importance

Uses: Ornamental flowering and shade tree; bark and seed oil used traditionally in medicine and cosmetics; good bee forage.
Economic importance: Popular indigenous choice for urban/institutional landscaping in Kenya; seed oil has minor cosmetic-industry use; valued by beekeepers.

Trade

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