Pictures of trees

The horn-pod tree is normally multi-stemmed with grey-blackish bark that flakes in squares.
Grows up to 10 metres tall in open woodland and rocky slopes.

The horn-pod tree contains a milky latex which when stirred makes a soft rubber. The latex has been used as birdlime (the latex is spread on branches where birds roost. When they land on the latex they stick to it and can not fly away.) The latex is also applied to the hides of drums to improve tone.

The shape of the fruit gives the horn-pod tree its name. The pods dry out in winter. Then they crack and open to drop 2-4 large seeds with membraneous wings.

An infusion of the roots is used to treat diarrhoea. A decoction of the root was used to relieve the symptoms of black-water fever. Headaches were cured with an infusion of the leaves.

The horn-pod tree is fire resistant and can survive early burning.

Kudu have been seen browsing new leaves at the beginning of summer.

The wood of the horn-pod tree is light brown with a fine grain.

Bird pictures
Reptile pictures
Sunset pictures
Pictures of insects