Combretum molle aka Velvet Bushwillow

Combretum molle is a shrub or small tree from tropical Africa. It belongs to the Combretaceae family. Its wide range includes both dry and moist regions. These areas share a clear dry season each year. The plant grows in savannah woodland and along forest edges. It also grows on termite mounds and rocky slopes. Wild plants occur from 98 to 7,546 feet [30–2,300 metres] above sea level.

Its form varies greatly from place to place. Reported heights usually range from 10 to 33 feet [3–10 metres]. Some trees reach 52 feet [16 metres]. The evidence does not give a separate garden height range. Some accounts describe a straight trunk with an even shape. Others describe trunks that lean or bend. Trunks can reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] across. With enough moisture, the tree keeps its leaves year-round. Dry weather can cause it to shed its leaves. Bees visit and pollinate its flowers.

This fast-growing tropical tree suits regions with a distinct dry season. Its reported growing conditions range from quite dry to fairly moist. Wild populations receive around 900–1,200 millimetres of rain each year. The tree occurs on heavy soils and rocky sites. It also grows in soils rich in nickel, copper, or graphite. These habitat records do not establish a preferred garden soil. Trees regrow well after coppicing, which cuts stems near ground level. The supplied sources give no frost limit or hardiness zone.

People gather gum from wild trees for local trade. Cuts in the bark release this material, called mumuye gum. Tests found it less useful than gum arabic as a substitute. The leaves yield dye, though accounts differ on its colour. Some report black, while others report red. The roots yield a yellow dye. People also use the twigs to clean their teeth. The wood is hard, dense, and strong, and has timber value.

Traditional medicine uses the roots, leaves, and bark for several ailments. Reported uses include fever, pain, digestive illness, and intestinal worms. These records describe traditional practice, not proven treatments. Root preparations also have a reported use to induce abortion. The source lists no known food uses or hazards. That does not establish safety for people or pets.