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This sturdy, rugged, tough, small tree has branches that are difficult to break and bend like a whip. This could be related to its African name umSindandlovu which means "that which resists elephants."
This plant is very widespread and grows in many different areas from Bushveld savannah to wooded hills and koppies.
It has beautiful foliage, the colour of which varies from blue-grey to almost silver, and is mostly evergreen although in a very cold season can become completely deciduous.
The crown and leaves are delicate and graceful and, in contrast with the thick stems and branches, make it an outstanding accent plant.
The rough, pale, corky bark is another contrasting feature. The flowers are pea-shaped and are carried in dense, graceful, terminal sprays. Colour varies from pale mauve to deep violet. These magnificent flowers are rich in nectar and attract sunbirds and butterflies to the garden. These are borne in Spring and Summer and show up beautifully against the silver foliage. Long yellow-brown, velvety pods follow the flowers and persist on the plant.
In your garden it requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is a perfect tree for small spaces as it has a non-aggressive root system and only grows up to 3m at the most.
As a Bonsai.
The cork bush grows well in containers and will eventually grow into a perfect miniature of the plant. It always looks neat and dwarfs easily, creating a beautiful bonsai.
The rough, fissured bark gives an aged look to even a young tree. It is interesting with or without flowers. This is a very hardy plant, not affected by drought or frost and will transplant easily.
Branches respond well to wiring and the compound leaflets can be cut back to neaten the outline.
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