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Shrub or small tree with a dense crown of foliage, and an
approximately conical form. The masses of white and sometimes
pinkish flowers are arranged in rows along the branchlets. They are
cup-shaped with a fringed edge, giving them the dainty appearance of
small hanging skirts, hence the attractive common name of 'Fairy
Petticoats'. These small flowers, about 1" long, also have an
unusual liquorice scent. Fruit is drupe, purple/blue, ovoid, with a
thin layer of flesh. Seed, one, encased in hard, rough stone. It is
an ideal tree for the garden as it needs little maintenance to
thrive, surviving well in low nutrient and dry soils (although it
performs best when well watered). This species grows in a range of
light intensities, from shade through to full sun.
Medical use: Crushed bark is used for poultcing persistent ulcers.
Leaf decoction drunk as general tonic and used for Bllious
afflictions. The leaves for traditional drug against syphilis. It
has mild diuretic properties to relieve bladder stones and painful
urination in general. |
