Cape-ash - Ekebergia capensis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Cape-ash

Cape-ash (Ekebergia capensis) is a plant species native to Africa, from the Eastern Cape of South Africa to Sudan and Ethiopia. This tree is often grown as an ornamental species, and birds and mammals feed upon its fruit. Cape-ash is often planted to provide garden shade. This species grows best when it is given a lot of water.

Scientific classification

Species

Cape-ash (Ekebergia capensis)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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7 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Red, Green

Fruit Color

White, Green

Flower Color

Black

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cape-ash

Distribution of Cape-ash

Distribution Map

Cape-ash is a plant mainly native to the subtropical regions of Africa, thriving in diverse habitats across the central, eastern, and southern parts of the continent. It has also been introduced and cultivated in various other regions, expanding its presence beyond its indigenous range, while adapting to a variety of environments within these new locations.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

From high altitude evergreen forests to riverine forests, and from the sea level to about 1500 m above sea level.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Interesting Facts

The pale timber is valued for cabinetmaking, and the bark can be used for tanning leather. The bark, roots, and leaves are used in traditional ethnic medicine and also to keep the chief safe from evil spells.

Name Story

Cape-ash: The name Ekebergia honors Captain C.G. Ekeberg, a ship's captain and botanist, who, in 1772, sponsored a visit to Africa by Anders Sparrman. Sparrman was a Swedish naturalist who recorded the first descriptions of the Cape Ash. Despite its common name, this tree is not a true ash (Fraxinus).

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Care Guide for Cape-ash

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Cape-ash thrives in regions with intermittent rainfall, developing drought tolerance. Watering should be done every 2-3 weeks to mimic natural conditions. Typically grown outdoors, cape-ash benefits from seasonal rain, enhancing its resilience against dry spells.

Fertilize: Cape-ash benefits from high nitrogen fertilizers for growth. Fertilize monthly in spring and summer, quarterly in fall, and avoid winter. Apply about 1 tablespoon per square foot. Excessive use can harm roots; adjust for younger plants. Use granular or slow-release fertilizers and water after application.

Pruning: Cape-ash thrives with early spring pruning to boost health and growth. Focus on eliminating dead branches, thinning crowded areas, and shaping foliage. Clean, sharp tools prevent damage, enhancing aesthetics and reducing pests while promoting flowering and fruiting.

Propagation: Cape-ash is an African tree valued for its medicinal and ornamental uses. Effective propagation involves taking healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings with leaves and nodes. Cut below the node, use rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil, maintaining warmth and moisture for optimal root growth.

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