Diospyros whyteana

Diospyros whyteana

Family: Ebenaceae

Common names: Bladder-Nut (e), Swartbas (a), umKhaze (z), umTenatane (x), Mohlatsane (ns).

Large, hardy, very decorative, evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, dark green leaves and bell-shaped white flowers in late winter to spring. The glossy, dark foliage is almost mirror-like and is outlined in fine blond hairs. The fruits are red when ripe, enclosed by bladder-like structures. As with all Diospyros spp. sexes are on separate plants, therefore only female plants bear fruit. Attracts birds to the garden. It is an attractive garden subject and can be used for hedging. Grows in sun or semi-shade. It also makes an excellent bonsai, container plant and small tree when pruned up. Historically the seeds were used as a coffee substitute. Used medicinally. Size 4 to 7m. S.A. No. 611.

Sowing instructions: Plant seeds in summer. They should first be scratched (scarified) before sowing. Fresh seed germinates readily in four to eight weeks.

Locality: Simondium. Harvest: August 2024