Rapanea melanophloeos | Cape-beech tree for sale | Kaapse Boekenhout

Cape-beech (Kaapse boekenhout) is a medium-large, evergreen, upright tree which grows at an average rate. It is somewhat frost sensitive and requires modest water. Rapanea melanophloeos has simple, dark green leaves (new growth has a pink-red tint) and inconspicuous flowers. It is known to bear fruit (a small berry) in abundance. The specie's root system is slightly aggressive.  

A few gardening ideas:

Cape-beech in recommended for planting in larger gardens (for example 1000 square meter). Its neat, upright growth form and dark green leaves will tie in well with other evergreen tree species to create a natural looking, rich, forest effect in your garden. Rapanea melanophloeos may also be planted as a focal point. It will provide shade and attract fruit-eating birds. In our experience Cape-beech does well in a large pot. Use this method if you want to enjoy its beauty in a small or even very small garden.

Value to honeybees: Nectar, N2?;  Pollen, P2?;   Flowering months 4-12, (6-8).   (See  blog-post "The bee-value of South Africa's trees" for an explanation of codes)