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It was Tommy Flaxman (the Ouhout expert) who gave the final nod by commenting that the specimen was worthy of a convention demonstration. This was sufficient motivation to get started. The tree was dug very easily in approximately twenty minutes. A good root ball was lifted, to increase the tree's chances of survival.
Tree Identification: SA No. 145
The Ouhout belongs to the family ROSACEAE (Rose family) which is not common in our South African region. It is more abundant in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. There are fewer than 8 native species in our region.
Characteristics:
The leaves are alternate, simple or compound, usually with toothed margins. Stipules are present and often conspicuous.
Economically an important family, yielding many fruit crops such as almond, cherry, nectarine, peach, plum and prune.
The family also produces many garden ornamentals such as the rose.
The wood is a useful source of firewood.
Leaves are used medicinally by making a paste for treating cases of ophthalmia.
In mountainous areas, the presence of these trees is taken as an indication that the streams are suitable for trout-stocking.
In KwaZulu Natal, the tree is troublesome as it invades overgrazed and disturbed areas, particularly after fires, forming impenetrable thickets.
Bonsai Potential:
The Ouhout does not seem to be popular as a bonsai specimen as it is not seen frequently at bonsai shows or in private collections. The question of whether it makes a beautiful bonsai is answered in the following manner ....................
"Unquestionably spectacular!"
The Ouhout may be regarded as a sensitive tree that does not enjoy having its roots tampered with. However, once established it grows profusely. It is most rewarding as far as bark, colour of the wood, dead wood and leaves are concerned.
[Balance of article can be found in Treeview Vol. 24, No.2, April 2002]
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