Skip to content
tree of the week Teclea gerrardii – Zulu cherry-orange – Zulukersielemoen – Umozane

Teclea gerrardii – Zulu cherry-orange – Zulukersielemoen – Umozane

Also known as the Zulu cherry-orange, Teclea gerrardii predominantly thrives in Kwa-Zulu Natal but can also be found from the Eastern Cape to southern Mozambique. It belongs to the Teclea genus, which encompasses approximately 22 species, four of which are located in southern Africa. This medium-sized tree can reach a mature height of 5m under favorable growing conditions.

Its trifoliate leaves exhibit a dull green color and a leathery texture, with slender, grooved stalks measuring approximately 10–25 mm in length. When crushed, the leaves emit a Citrus-like fragrance. The bark of Teclea gerrardii is grey with circular patches and tends to flake, revealing a yellowish underbark.

During spring and early summer, from August to January, Teclea gerrardii produces flowers ranging from yellowish to green. The flowers are arranged in short, unbranched inflorescences located in the axils. Following flowering, fleshy spherical fruits emerge from November to June. Initially velvety green and hairy, the fruits transition to a reddish-orange hue upon ripening. They eventually become hairless and adorned with small raised lumps.

Due to its slow growth rate, the Zulu cherry-orange makes an excellent choice for container planting. It is well-suited to small gardens. This ornamental tree thrives in both sunny and shady locations, attracting wildlife to your garden with its presence.

Leave a Reply

Send us a Whatsapp!