Oldwood (Leucosidea sericea)

Oldwood

The ouhout is often a straggly shrub or a dense small evergreen tree which grows up to 7 m tall to 5 m wide. It is single or multi-stemmed and branches low down. The leaves are alternately arranged compound and covered with silky silver hairs. Each leaf possesses 3 to 4 pairs of leaflets. The leaves are a dark green colour above and a lighter green colour below. The margins of the leaflets are deeply serrated. The flowers are greenish-yellow in colour star-shaped and grow in spikes at the ends of young shoots in spring. The fruits are nut-like and about 3 mm in diameter (Winter).

Scientific classification

Species

Oldwood (Leucosidea sericea)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Oldwood

Distribution of Oldwood

Distribution Map

Oldwood is indigenous to the montane and hilly regions of Southern Africa. Its presence spans across the southern part of the continent where temperate climates provide suitable growing conditions. While native to this broad region, it is not reported as an introduced species in other major regions, thus its range remains confined to its original Southern African habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Oldwood

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Oldwood prefers consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering to prevent waterlogging. It thrives in temperate climates and benefits from natural rainfall, needing supplemental watering during dry spells. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round interest while requiring less water in cooler months.

Fertilize: For oldwood, apply Balanced Nutrition Fertilizers during the growing season and High Nitrogen Fertilizers in early spring. Fertilize biannually, using one teaspoon per foot of height. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent nutrient burn, and reduce feedings in dormancy. Water before fertilizing to prevent root shock.

Pruning: Oldwood requires pruning in early to late winter when dormant. Remove dead branches, thin dense areas, and maintain shape with clean cuts to prevent disease. This promotes vigorous spring regrowth, enhances air circulation, and improves overall plant health and appearance.

Propagation: A resilient shrub of the Rosaceae family, oldwood can be propagated through healthy semi-hardwood cuttings. A cut below a leaf node enhances rooting, supported by rooting hormones and well-draining soil. Maintain adequate moisture without waterlogging and provide dappled light for optimal growth.

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