Item Tag: African Cape Chestnut

Calodendrum Capense Also known as: Cape Chestnut Despite its common name, the Cape chestnut tree is not closely related to chestnuts (Castanea species) or horse chestnuts (Aesculus species), but instead is a member of the citrus family (Rutaceae) from Africa. It is not a typical citrus in appearance, as it is a large tree, with spectacular flowers, and the fruit does not look like those of its relatives (such as lemons, oranges and limes). It looks magnificent when in flower, as the pink and mauve spray of flowers often cover the entire canopy of the tree. Each fragrant flower has five spreading petals measuring up to 3.5×0.7 cm. The tree itself will grow up to 7–20 meters tall, with a non-aggressive root system. It appears that it can be container grown and can even be used for bonsai. The wood is hard and pale in color. It is easily worked, bends well, and is used widely for furniture, flooring, tool handles and implements. The bark is widely used as an ingredient in cosmetics (some of which are used to dye the skin whitish). The seed oil otherwise known as Yangu oil is used in soap-making and is a popular oil in traditional African skin care. Its inherent ultra violet protection and its high content of essential fatty acids and antioxidants and its mild smell destined it for natural cosmetics. As a pure oil it is used to moisturize and nourish dry, damaged skin. As a healing ointment it is used by those who suffer from Psoriasis, Skin cracking, Eczema, Scaling or Sagging, or Chapped lips. The seeds are also readily eaten by birds and monkeys, if you happen to have a monkey. It is deciduous to semi-deciduous, and no matter what zone your in it will handle light frost. It will not tolerate heavy frost or freezing temperatures. Flowering is adversely affected by very cold weather. It will need a warm sunny position in fertile, well-composted soil with plenty of water during spring and summer. Protect the tree from strong, persistent winds so as to retain its rounded shape. Under ideal conditions this species can grow up to a meter a year. Enlarge the photos and take a closer look…collectors will know this is a good find! This offer is for 4 large seeds. For complete transparency we include payment processing & Ebay fees in our shipping/handling cost.*DISCLAIMER*NO RETURNS/REFUNDS/REPLACEMENTS ON SEEDSMost specialty seeds we offer are NOT fast to germinate.Many take several weeks, months, and some even up towards a year depending on dormancy, region, season etc. It is important that the buyer understands that seeds are perishable products and seed germination can be adversely affected by such factors as mold/fungus, bugs, temperature, moisture content, light intensity, dormancy, care, contamination of planting media among many other reasons. These factors are totally out of The Plant Attraction’s control and are the buyer’s responsibility and risk. Germination recommendations are sent with each order and the buyer is free to research and use their own methods. Floating seeds do not always indicate that the seed is not viable. Many times it is a misconception because the seed does not have the density to sink in water. Accordingly, The Plant Attraction does not guarantee seeds to perform properly regardless of conditions or buyer’s methods or mistakes. Since 2006 we have been doing our best to hand sort and provide the freshest, cleanest harvest that is free of defects and bugs.