Curtisia

Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree top canopy - Table Mountain 3

Curtisia dentata, vrugte, a, TUT-kampus

1 Assegai tree - Curtisia dentata - afromontane

Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree - Table Mountain 6

Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree - hedge screen 8

Curtisia dentata - 2

Curtisia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Curtisiaceae. It is native to southern Africa and is known for its medicinal properties and use in traditional medicine. The genus contains a single species, Curtisia dentata, commonly known as the Assegai tree.

Description

Curtisia dentata is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. It has a dense, rounded crown and smooth, greyish bark. The leaves are simple, opposite, and leathery, with a glossy green upper surface and a paler underside. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in dense clusters. The fruit is a small, red drupe.

Habitat

Curtisia dentata is typically found in Afromontane forests and along forest margins. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey. The tree is commonly found at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2000 meters above sea level.

Uses

The wood of Curtisia dentata is highly valued for its durability and is used in the construction of furniture, tools, and other wooden items. The bark and leaves have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach disorders, fever, and wounds. The tree is also planted as an ornamental due to its attractive appearance.

Conservation

Curtisia dentata is not currently listed as threatened, but habitat loss and over-exploitation for its valuable wood and medicinal properties pose potential risks to its population. Conservation efforts are focused on sustainable harvesting practices and habitat preservation.

Related Pages

• Afromontane
• Assegai tree
• Curtisiaceae
• Traditional medicine