Kiggelaria africana aka Pink Wood

Kiggelaria africana, or wild peach, belongs to the Achariaceae family. Its native range stretches from Ethiopia to South Africa. It grows as a shrub or a low-branched tree. Wild plants occur in rain forests and mist forests. They also grow along the edges of these forests. Recorded sites lie at 4,495–8,366 feet [1,370–2,550 metres]. Kew places it in the seasonally dry tropical biome.

Its size and form vary across its range. Shrub forms may reach about 10 feet [3 metres]. The listed garden height is about 33 feet [10 metres]. Larger trees can reach 56 feet [17 metres]. It may keep its leaves or shed them briefly. Branches tend to form near the base of the trunk. For a clear trunk, remove lower branches while plants are young. Its roots do not tend to grow aggressively.

Young plants grow fast when conditions suit them. They can start to flower at just two years old. The species is not self-fertile. Red seeds draw birds to the plant. The supplied account gives no flowering season or detailed flower description. It also gives no details of bark or leaf shape. Its appeal in gardens includes its tree form and bird-attracting seeds.

Wild peach grows in subtropical and tropical climates. It suits sites that range from fairly dry to moist. Give it full sun and soil rich in organic matter. It prefers a moderate water supply but can withstand drought. It tolerates brief cold spells down to about 28°F [-2°C]. It also occurs where daytime heat reaches about 97°F [36°C]. These limits do not establish a hardiness zone for year-round cultivation.

Growers use wild peach for hedges as well as trees. People also harvest wild trees for their timber. The wood has a pink-brown colour and a fine grain. Its hardness makes it useful for several kinds of work. Uses include beams, floorboards, cabinets, and furniture. In the past, woodworkers made wagon-wheel spokes from it. Plants can grow from seed or cuttings. Move seedlings outdoors by about one foot [0.3 metres] tall to avoid cramped roots. The source lists no known edible or medicinal uses. It reports no known hazards, but gives no specific safety tests. The supplied evidence names no pests or diseases.