Plants I Love - The Karee Tree

Exploring the Karee Tree

Amidst the diverse botanical tapestry of Southern Africa, the Searsia lancea, commonly known as the Karee tree, holds a special place.

This small to medium - sized evergreen is not just a plant but a pivotal element in the ecological and cultural landscapes of its native range.

A Portrait of Resilience

The Karee Tree typically grows to a height of around 7 m, though it can vary based on environmental conditions.

It often adopts a single - stemmed form, with low branches that contribute to a dense, round canopy.

This structure provides a soft, willow - like silhouette, making it a graceful addition to any landscape.

The bark of the Karee is notably coarse - textured; young specimens display a reddish - brown hue that darkens to grey or brown as the tree ages.

Foliage and Floral Display

The leaves of the Karee are trifoliate, each leaf consisting of three narrowly lanceolate leaflets. These leaflets are dark green on top and a paler green underneath, with smooth, entire margins.

The foliage is not only beautiful but also functional. It provides fodder for livestock and serves as a vital food source for wildlife during droughts.

From June to September, the Karee Tree is adorned with small, inconspicuous flowers. These greenish - yellow blooms are arranged in much - branched sprays, with separate male and female flowers found on different trees.

Following the floral display, from September to January, the tree bears small, glossy fruits that are a hit with birds and other wildlife.

Ecological Benefits and Uses

The Karee Tree is truly a bastion of biodiversity. It thrives in Acacia woodlands and along waterways, often on lime - rich soils, from Zambia to the Western Cape.

Its roots stabilize the soil and enhance rainwater infiltration, which helps in reducing erosion and raising the groundwater table.

In addition to ecological benefits, the Karee has practical uses. The sweet scent of its flowers attracts bees, contributing to pollination activities.

The fruits, while modest in size, were historically used in making honey beer. The wood, hard and durable, was traditionally used for making tools and building materials.

Growing Karee in Your Garden

Searsia lancea is not only a plant of rugged beauty and ecological utility but also one that is exceptionally adaptable to a variety of growing conditions.

It is drought - resistant, frost - hardy, and evergreen, making it an ideal choice for providing year - round shade and aesthetic appeal.

Planting a Karee Tree can be easily done from seed or cuttings. The tree grows relatively fast, achieving up to 80 cm per year under good conditions.

It’s perfect for planting near water features due to its picturesque drooping habit and also serves as an effective hedge or privacy screen due to its dense growth.

A Cultural Beacon

The Karee Tree, with its deep roots in Southern African culture, holds various names across different languages, reflecting its widespread recognition and significance.

Whether known as Umhlakotshane in Zulu or Mosilabele in Tswana, each name hints at the tree's integral role in local traditions.

Locals will often be seen next to road sides picking the fruits from the Karee Tree and consuming them, knowledge that has been passed on for centuries.

Conclusion

The Karee Tree is more than just a plant; it's a symbol of resilience and beauty in the Southern African landscape.

For those interested in sustainable gardening, ecological conservation, or simply the pleasures of a verdant garden, Searsia lancea offers an abundance of benefits.

About The Author

Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.

Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.

To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography

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