Nuxia floribunda aka Forest Elder

Nuxia floribunda is an evergreen tree or shrub in the Stilbaceae family. The RHS calls it kite tree. Its native range runs from southwestern Uganda to South Africa. It grows in forests and along their edges. These include both coastal woods and mountain forests. It also grows beside streams and in dry mountain forests. Its range reaches heights of about 7,874 feet [2,400 metres].

The tree forms a thick crown with a rounded outline. Its usual height is 10–33 feet [3–10 metres]. One source also lists a height of 26 feet [8 metres]. Exceptional trees can reach 82 feet [25 metres]. The trunk often twists and has grooves along its length. It can reach about 2 feet [0.6 metres] across. The tree keeps its leaves throughout the year. Its cream-white flowers have a sweet scent. Their abundant display makes this a tree grown for ornament. Bees and other insects pollinate the flowers. The plant can also set seed through self-pollination.

Give this tree full sun or a site with some shade. It grows best in deep, rich soil that stays moist. It does not cope well with drought. Frost can harm it, so cold limits where it will thrive. The source rates its growth as medium overall. Growth can be faster when the soil is rich and moist. Its roots do not spread aggressively. This allows planting near roads, paving, and buildings.

Growers can raise new plants from seed or cuttings. Sow the tiny seeds on the surface of the growing medium. Cover them lightly with fine river sand. Keep the seed tray moist in a warm, bright place. Seeds may take six to twelve weeks to sprout. Few seeds may germinate. Semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings offer another way to raise plants. Use a growing medium that drains well for rooting.

People collect the bark for its tannins and use the wood. The pale yellow wood is hard, heavy, and fine-grained. Uses include furniture, building poles, general woodwork, and fuel. Roots and leaves have traditional medicinal uses for flu and other ailments. These reports do not establish safe or effective treatment. The source lists no known food uses or hazards. That does not confirm that the plant is safe to eat.