(Curtisia dentata)
Price: R 320
Available in the following regions: Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal
The Assegai is a brave and strong tree. According to legend, its ancestors were used in the carving of the Trojan Horse. In South Africa, the Assegai’s durable wood was employed in wagon-making, furniture and weaponry. The bark remains in great demand for traditional medicines, and is used to treat stomach ailments.
A medium to tall evergreen tree, the Assegai averages 2m to 12m in height, but can reach up to 20m. Flowers are inconspicuous, but the small white or pink-tinged fruit can be very decorative. Those wanting to attract birdlife to their gardens would do well to plant an Assegai.