Mimusops zeyheri, Transvaal Red Milkwood Tree Seeds - Indigenous Edible Fruit - Evergreen

Mimusops zeyheri Seeds

Transvaal Red Milkwood

Mimusops zeyheri is potentially a large, evergreen tree with a rounded crown which may reach up to 15 m under ideal conditions. It is, however, often encountered as a shrub or small tree in its natural range and only reaches its full potential in gardens, protected valleys and forest margins where moisture is more available. The leaves are glossy, dark green and carried on a spreading crown, which could easily be as wide as the tree is high. It has the potential to make an excellent evergreen garden specimen for larger gardens, parks and golf courses. This tree casts a deep shade, which offers a cool escape from the hot African sun. It is possibly overlooked as a horticultural subject due to the erroneous perception that it can be somewhat slow growing and consequently takes many years to reach its full potential. Small, white, sweetly scented flowers are borne in October to February. Fruits are oval with a pointed tip ripening yellow or orange from April to September. It is a popular bonsai subject and may also be attractive as an indoor plant, it is said to have a root system which is safe for planting near swimming pools, buildings and paving. To top all of this, it has tasty fruit which are sweet and high in vitamin C.