Top 20 Most Common Trees in Botswana

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Top 20 Most Common Trees in Botswana

In the climatic and soil conditions of Botswana, several native trees flourish. Key examples include the Chinaberry tree, Olive, and Mulberry. These emblematic trees hold significant cultural and ecological value for the region. They play a vital role in the local ecosystems and are cherished for their contributions to the environment. While not delving into specific details, it is clear that these trees symbolize the rich biodiversity of Botswana and add to the beauty of its landscape.

Most Common Trees

Chinaberry tree

1. Chinaberry tree

The chinaberry tree is considered an invasive species in many areas because of its tendency to grow into impassable thickets and crowd out other plants. The entire chinaberry tree is poisonous to humans and many other animals, although cows and some birds have no problems eating the fruit.

Olive

Olive (Olea europaea) is an evergreen tree or shrub with great agricultural importance, especially in the Mediterranean. Its fruits are edible and widely used for making oil. Olive has acquired quite a few symbolic meanings during its long history of cultivation. The most popular symbol would probably be the olive branch, which represents peace and glory.

African sumac

3. African sumac

Searsia lancea is a highly drought tolerant shade tree native to Africa. It can withstand hot and cold temperatures and will tolerate heavy pruning. This evergreen tree can be planted as a windshield or hedge.

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Mulberry

A unique and easy-to-grow edible landscaping plant, the mulberry is prized for its tasty fruits as well as its exquisite ornamental appeal. Originally native to China, this plant was valued for its role in silk production: silkworms will only eat the leaves of mulberry trees, making them crucial for the product's creation. Ultimately, the trees were sold around the world and are used today in different countries that produce silk.

Peach

Peach is native to Northwest China. China, Spain, and Italy are the top three producers of peaches world-wide. The peach is also the state fruit of Georgia. Peach production in the US in 2017 was valued at $599 million. The fruit has a yellow or white flesh, a sweet aroma, and a skin that is either velvety (peaches) or smooth (nectarines).

Common sugarbush

6. Common sugarbush

A unique plant that is occasionally cultivated in tropical gardens to add texture and color, common sugarbush can either grow as a tree or shrub in its natural South African habitat. In areas where wildfires are common, it has a bush-like growth habit.

Sweet thorn

Sweet thorn (Vachellia karroo) is deeply embedded in the history and culture of South Africa, with Zulu people using its wood for fencing, rafts, and even sewing needles. Though named for its thorns, sweet thorn also grows undeniably cheerful, bright yellow, pom-pom-like flowers in the early summer.

Glossy privet

8. Glossy privet

The glossy privet can be grown as a shrub or tree. This hardy, drought-tolerant plant has attractive glossy leaves and appealing white flowers. The flowers of glossy privet have a strong odor, so before planting make sure you find the scent acceptable. The berries that they produce are toxic if consumed.

Pencil cactus

9. Pencil cactus

Pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a small tree shrub that grows best in warm arid climates and is named for its pencil-sized succulent branches. Pencil cactus is native to black clay soils in Africa and can be poisonous if ingested. It produces a latex compound that can be poisonous and cause blindness.

Ear-leaved nightshade

10. Ear-leaved nightshade

Ear-leaved nightshade (Solanum mauritianum) is a small shrub species that can live up to thirty years. Ear-leaved nightshade is native to South America, including Northern Argentina, Southern Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. This species is considered invasive in New Zealand and Australia, where is it known as tobacco bush weed. All parts of this plant, especially the berries, are toxic to humans.

Chinese hackberry

11. Chinese hackberry

This deciduous tree, the chinese hackberry or Celtis sinensis, is a deciduous tree and a member of the hemp family. It can grow to about 18 m tall. It can be considered invasive.

Pomegranate

12. Pomegranate

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a deciduous shrub or small tree, native to western and southern parts of Asia. It has a long history of cultivation and rich symbolism in polytheistic religions. Fruits of pomegranate play an important role in many West Asian cuisines. Aside from culinary uses, this fruit-bearing shrub is also cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Tree of heaven

13. Tree of heaven

While the tree of heaven has a lovely name, it has a bad reputation in many areas of the US. Several states consider it an invasive species because of its aggressive growth, rapid reproduction, and ability to thrive in poor conditions. The root system of this tree routinely damages sidewalks, sewer systems and other structures.

Stem-fruit

Stem-fruit (Englerophytum magalismontanum) is a popular plant in certain provinces of South Africa. The fruit is a berry that contains a milky latex. It is a common food source for butterflies, baboons, monkeys, and bushpigs.

Black locust

15. Black locust

While the black locust may have a bad reputation in many areas of the US due to its opportunistic and rapid growth, there are benefits to this tree. The black locust is an important food source for honey bees and is a good choice for windbreaks since it grows so quickly (91 to 122 cm per year). Its wood also resists rot, so it is used in fenceposts. The plant is highly toxic, though, and should never be consumed.

Spineless yucca

16. Spineless yucca

Spineless yucca (*Yucca gigantea*) is a flowering evergreen shrub. It is evolutionarily related to asparagus, although its appearance does not indicate this fact. Spineless yucca grows in warm climates throughout Central America and nearby islands. When growing spineless yucca as a houseplant, it is important not to overwater the plant.

Indian Laurel

17. Indian Laurel

Indian Laurel (Ficus microcarpa) is a fig tree originating in China. The indian Laurel attracts the fig wasp pollinator. In some east Asian cultures, it is believed the indian Laurel is a meeting place for spirits.

Peruvian peppertree

18. Peruvian peppertree

The peruvian peppertree (Schinus molle) is a tree species native to the Andes Mountains of South America. Peruvian peppertree has both culinary and herbal uses and in the past also saw use as a textile dye. While the peppercorns are edible, the plant itself is poisonous to livestock and children.

Blue jacaranda

19. Blue jacaranda

Blue jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) is a plant species native to southern South America. Blue jacaranda grows in many cities around the world. Pretoria, South Africa is known as the Jacaranda City. The blue jacaranda is often referenced in songs and literature.

Chilean cestrum

20. Chilean cestrum

Chilean cestrum (Cestrum parqui) is a deciduous shrub. It blooms from summer to fall with fragrant, tubular-shaped yellow flowers that emit the strongest scent throughout the evening hours. Perfect for growing near an al fresco dining area or patio. It has been listed for years as a top plant by the Royal Horticultural Society, but can be invasive in warm climate areas.

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Most Common Toxic Plants

Botswana's semi-arid climate, with seasonal rains and varied habitats from the Kalahari Desert to the Okavango Delta, supports diverse flora, including , , and . These conditions potentially favor the proliferation of toxic plants. Despite Botswana's rich biodiversity, the prevalence of poisonous flora poses a threat to both humans and grazing wildlife, warranting monitoring and research into these species.

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Most Common Flowers

Botswana boasts a favorable climate and soil conditions that foster the growth of native flowers. Among the most characteristic blossoms are , , and . These flowers contribute to the visual beauty, symbolism, and ecological diversity of the region. They serve as a testament to Botswana's rich floral heritage. Trustworthy sources have confirmed the significance of these flowers in the local environment, making them a captivating sight for both residents and visitors alike.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Botswana embraces Spring, the landscape transforms with bursts of life and color. Flowers like , , and begin to unfurl their petals. These blooms are not only a visual spectacle but often embody the vitality of Spring, marking the season of renewal. The vibrant flowering acts as a beacon for pollinators, playing a crucial role in the local ecosystem.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Botswana heralds a season of renewal as rains infuse life into the arid landscapes, coaxing fruit plants into bountiful production. , , and reach their peak, offering fresh, juicy rewards that not only tantalize the taste buds but also signify the country's agricultural rebirth. These fruits become a vibrant showcase of nature's resilience and the local's connection to the rhythm of the seasons.

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Most Common Fruits

Botswana's semi-arid climate and sandy soils are surprisingly hospitable for certain resilient local fruit plants. Thanks to the generous sun and specific irrigation techniques, , , and thrive here. These plants are not just agricultural assets but also cultural treasures. They likely contribute to local cuisine and traditional medicine, reflecting Botswana's heritage and botanic diversity.

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Most Common Weeds

Botswana's warm, semi-arid climate provides a nurturing ground for robust garden weeds. Among the uninvited flora, , , and have proven particularly tenacious. These pervasive weeds pose significant challenges for green-thumbed residents, vying with desired plants for nutrients, space, and sunlight. Effective weed management is a continual endeavor in Botswana's gardens, where these common intruders exhibit a remarkable resilience to control efforts.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Enveloped by semi-arid to subtropical climes, Botswana's landscapes are a harmonious blend of savannas, woodlands, and wetlands—ripe grounds for stratospheric flora. Dominating this botanical theater, , , and rank as the sky-piercing giants of the region. Each stands as a testament to nature's grandiosity, offering crucial ecological services and embodying cultural sagas spun through generations in their commanding presence.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in 'Botswana' may be cold and serene, but it brings forth a surprising array of flowers that brave the chill. Among them, , , and stand out with their resilience, beauty, and symbolic depth. These winter blooms add vibrance to the frosty landscape and showcase the incredible diversity of flora in Botswana, proving that even in the harshest conditions, nature thrives.

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Most Common Plants

In Botswana, you can find Pepper, Marijuana, Elephant bush, Jade plant, Tomato, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

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