Cape Ash

Ekebergia capensis

NAME: Ekebergia capensis

FAMILY: Meliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Cape Ash, Dogplum, Essenhout

LOCAL NAMES: Witessenhout (South Africa), Mlungumeli (Swaziland), Muhimbi (Zimbabwe), Mutondo (Malawi)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Ekebergia capensis is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 20 meters. It has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that becomes rough and fissured as the tree matures. The leaves are compound, alternate, and pinnate, consisting of several leaflets arranged along a central axis. The leaflets are oblong, glossy green, and have serrated margins. Ekebergia capensis produces small, fragrant, cream-colored flowers that are arranged in clusters. The tree bears small, spherical fruits that turn from green to yellow as they ripen.

USEFUL PART(s): The bark, leaves, and fruits of Ekebergia capensis are utilized for various purposes.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Timber: Ekebergia capensis is valued for its timber, which is commonly known as Cape Ash. The wood is durable, termite-resistant, and has a light brown to reddish-brown color. It is used in the construction of furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and musical instruments.

  2. Medicinal Applications: The bark and leaves of Ekebergia capensis have traditional medicinal uses in different African cultures. They are used in remedies for fever, malaria, stomach ailments, and skin conditions. The bark is also employed as a toothbrush substitute.

  3. Cultural Significance: Ekebergia capensis holds cultural importance in various African communities. It is often associated with ancestral beliefs and is used in rituals, ceremonies, and traditional practices.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Ekebergia capensis is native to southern Africa and can be found in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Swaziland, and Mozambique. It typically occurs in various habitats, including savannahs, woodlands, and riverine forests.

WHY IS IT GREEN? The green color of Ekebergia capensis, like all plants, is due to the presence of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells and is essential for photosynthesis. It absorbs sunlight, particularly in the red and blue regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, and uses this energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen during photosynthesis.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Ekebergia capensis provides important ecological benefits in its native range. The tree offers shade, habitat, and food sources for various animal species, including birds and insects. It contributes to biodiversity and plays a role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

FUN FACT: In South Africa, Ekebergia capensis is known as "Essenhout," which translates to "Ash Wood." This name is derived from the fact that the wood of the tree resembles that of true ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in color and texture, although they are not closely related.

Further Reading:

  • "Ekebergia capensis: A Valuable Tree Species of Southern Africa" by J. H. Coetzee