Belonging to the bitter-sweet family (Celastraceae), Gymnosporia buxifolia is a semi-deciduous to evergreen shrub or small tree native to Southern Africa. This tree is highly ornamental, especially during the flowering period, and is exceptionally cold- and drought-hardy. It can grow as a large shrub reaching a height of 3m or as a small tree with a mature height of up to 7m. It is endemic to several South African provinces, including Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. This tree is found growing naturally in diverse habitats such as grasslands, fynbos, Nama-karoo, forests, thickets, and savanna-bushveld.
The Common spike-thorn has a rounded crown, with spiky, drooping branches. The brown bark develops a corky texture, turning darker brown and rough with age, often flaking off in patches. Its leaves are usually clustered on very short dwarf spur-branchlets in the axils of the spines, or sometimes on green spines. From August to March, the tree becomes covered in small white flowers, creating a striking display. However, the flowers emit an unpleasant odour that attracts flies and other pollinating insects. After flowering, the tree produces green, three-lobed capsules that ripen to a greyish-brown colour and become wrinkled when dry. These fruits serve as an important food source for birds and other wildlife.
Gymnosporia buxifolia is an excellent choice for a wildlife garden, it provides nesting sites for birds and shelter for small mammals and insects. The dense thorny branches also offer protection from predators. Its sharp rigid spines make it an effective security hedge, helping to deter unwanted intruders. This tree is also adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it suitable for planting under taller trees as part of a layered garden design.
Despite its thorny nature, this tree’s delicate flowers and textured bark add aesthetic value to gardens. Due to the unpleasant scent of its flowers, Gymnosporia buxifolia should not be planted too close to living spaces or outdoor seating areas. However, when it is strategically placed in larger gardens or as a protective screen, it offers significant ecological and practical benefits.
The Sun Trees Team
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