Calodendrum capense
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| Calodendrum (L.f.) Thunb. |
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) is a tree which is native to Africa and cultivated widely for its prolific flower display.
The tree can reach 20 metres high in a forest, but in cultivation it is more likely to reach 10 metres, with a spreading canopy. The trunk is smooth and grey and the leaves are ovate up to 22 cm long and 10 cm wide. The large pink flowers are produced in terminal panicles and cover the tree canopy in the early summer.
The tree obtained the common name of "Cape Chestnut" because explorer William Burchell saw a resemblance to Horse Chestnut in terms of flowers and fruits, however it is not closely related.
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