Peltophorum africanum aka African Wattle

Peltophorum africanum, or African wattle, belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. Its native range runs from southern DR Congo to South Africa. It also grows wild in Angola, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana form part of its range. It grows in wooded grassland and along valley margins. Its range includes tropical areas with a marked dry season.

This fast-growing tree reaches about 16–33 feet [5–10 metres] tall. Its crown spreads, and branches often start near the ground. Some trees form two or three stems at ground level. Early growth can reach 3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres] each year. The tree sends up fresh shoots after cutting. Higher cuts tend to produce more new shoots. Gardeners grow it for its flowers, shade, and shelter. They also train it as bonsai. Bees pollinate the flowers.

Give African wattle full sun and soil that drains well. It prefers sandy or loamy ground with moderate fertility. Wild trees also grow in poor, acidic, stony soils. Some occupy shallow ground over several kinds of rock. Its preferred soil pH runs from 5.5 to 7. It tolerates a wider range of 5 to 7.5. Established trees can withstand drought. It suits warm lowland tropical and subtropical conditions. Dormant trees may survive temperatures near 25°F [-4°C]. Yet young growth can suffer severe harm at 30°F [-1°C]. Young plants need frost protection for their first two or three years.

Seeds have a hard coat that can delay germination. Scarification and soaking can help them take up water. Seeds may sprout within three to ten days. Young plants transplant well and grow at a fairly fast pace. These traits support raising the tree from seed for garden planting.

African traditional medicine uses the bark and roots for several complaints. These include digestive problems, wounds, and sores. Laboratory studies have found active compounds in these parts. Such findings do not establish safe home treatments. No edible uses are recorded in the supplied source. The gum has a reported poison risk. The heavy wood serves for furniture, carving, buckets, and tool handles. Workers can polish it to a smooth finish. People also use powdered, decayed heartwood for its scent.