Kiggelaria africana naturally occurs along the South and East coast of South Africa where it is found growing on edges of forests, kloofs and rocky outcrops of grass-covered mountain slopes. This evergreen tree belongs to the Kei apple family [Flacourtiaceae]. It reaches a mature height of 10m under favourable growing conditions.
This low-branching tree has a smooth, pale grey bark that becomes rough with age. Its fairly narrow glossy green leaves resemble those of the peach tree, hence the common name ‘Wild peach’. Kiggelaria africana bears male and female flowers on separate trees. These small bell-shaped orange and green flowers appear on the tree from Spring to Summer [August to January]. Fruiting occurs from February to July only on female trees. The yellowish-green capsules split to release shiny black seeds.
Although young trees need frost protection for the first year or two, Kiggelaria africana becomes frost-resistant when mature. This tree is a must-have for schools only because it’s a beautiful shade tree but because of the wide range of wildlife it attracts. This could be beneficial for practical biology lessons. K.africana is fast growing, it provides shade, buffers noise and dust pollution. This tree also offers screening between neighbours.